Rural Business Focus: Recent Episodes
Ben Eagle
A podcast for people running rural businesses. This podcast aims to inspire and support you to be your very best, both personally and for your business.
Michael Kavanagh shares his family’s heartbreaking story of losing their 2-year-old daughter, Eleanor, to sudden viral pneumonia in January 2025. In her memory, he and his wife Di are undertaking incredible endurance challenges to raise awareness and funds through The Eleanor Challenge. Please donate if you can.
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Ian Pullen, a beef farmer from Wotton Under Edge, Gloucestershire. Ian shares his journey into farming, the challenges he faces with TB in cattle, and how he has successfully integrated YouTube into his farming business. He discusses the importance of diversification, the direct sales model for his beef, and the future of farming amidst changing policies and market demands. Ian emphasizes the need for farmers to adapt and find new income streams while maintaining a connection with their customers.
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle sits down with Thomas Gent, a fourth-generation farmer and founder of Gentle Farming, to discuss his journey into regenerative agriculture and the innovations shaping the future of farming. They dive into topics like soil health, natural capital, agri-tech, and the challenges and opportunities within the farming industry today.
In this episode we meet Bronagh Dempster, a passionate new entrant into the farming world from Northern Ireland. Discover her inspiring journey from a fascination with dairy cows to forging her path in the industry, and even doing a Nuffield Next Gen Scholarship. Bronagh shares her experiences, challenges, and insights on the evolving dairy sector, offering valuable advice for aspiring farmers and industry enthusiasts.
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle talks with Miranda Webster of Webster's Rural about recruitment challenges and opportunities in the professional and farm manager side of the agricultural and rural sectors, from post-Brexit shifts to the role of AI in hiring. They explore how rural businesses can attract and retain talent while balancing modern tools with the human side of recruitment.
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben chats with Tara, a third-generation sheep and mixed crop farmer from western Victoria, Australia. They discuss her family’s farming journey, livestock and land management practices, the realities of Australian agriculture, and how she uses social media to share her story and connect with consumers.
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle speaks with beef and sheep farmer James Warwick from north Cornwall about how he moved to Cornwall from Cambridgeshire to live with his grandparents and learn to farm. He now farms South Devon cattle and 350–400 ewes. James shares his passion for farming, financial challenges of farming and the mental strain it can sometimes bring.
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle heads to Indiana in the United States to speak with Shane and Val Wallis about their family farm, where they raise Shorthorn cattle alongside corn, beans, and hay. They discuss the rewards and challenges of farming in their region, their farming journey, social media and their hopes for the future of the farm.
Does this Yorkshire dairy farmer have the answer to future on farm energy? Eddie Andrew from Our Cow Molly near Sheffield comes on to talk about his latest on farm renewable energy project which would be community owned.
In this episode, Ben Eagle is joined by David Exwood, Deputy President of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), who farms over 1,200 tenanted hectares just south of Horsham in West Sussex. David shares insights from his multi-enterprise farming business—featuring arable, beef, sheep, and a farm shop—as well as his leadership journey within the NFU.
Check out pitch up at Pitch Up! Annual call-out to join our growing circular communities.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
You can find out more about Joe's business at craftandscale.com
Image credit: Joe Morrison
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Rachel Eunson is the founder of the UK’s first garden wear brand designed exclusively for women. - Feverfew Garden Company.
We learn many lessons in the episode including the power of community, giving away free products and making your idea reality.
Image credit: Rachel Eunson
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Ben speaks to Chloe Lucas from Essex who was inspired to get into agriculture after watching Clarkson's Farm during lockdown.
The 5 components of making a plan:
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Vision and Goals
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Situation Analysis (SWOT)
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Strategy Development
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Financial Planning
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Implementation and Review
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
You can find out more about Charles at Charles Rose
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
The podcast harvest special featuring harvest reports from Richard Heady, Charles Anyan, Andrew Wilson and Andrew Court.
Who are the five people who you spend the most time with an what influence might they be having on you? Positive or negative?
Ben is joined by insect farmer and Nuffield scholar David Tavenor to discuss insect farming as a livestock protein source.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Ben visits the grain and pulse pioneer business Hodmedod's in Suffolk to speak to its co-founder and director Josiah Meldrum.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Ben meets the CEO of Plunkett UK - James Alcock - to talk about community owned businesses and their role in rural communities.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Image credit: Femme Country Magazine
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
In this episode, Ben Eagle is joined by Eric Elgersma and Natasha Foote to discuss the macro and global issues that will shape the world of rural businesses. They explore topics such as transition, connection, and the impact of European and global politics on rural businesses. They also discuss the trends of size and scale, collaboration, and the importance of being fit for purpose in the rural business sector. The conversation touches on the recent EU elections and the potential implications for rural businesses. Overall, the episode provides insights into the challenges and opportunities facing rural businesses in the coming years. The conversation explores trends and themes in rural businesses. Key trends identified include a focus on sustainability, diversification of business models, local consumption, digital transformation, and generational renewal. The importance of infrastructure, both digital and physical, is highlighted. The discussion also touches on the role of government in rural areas, with a potential shift towards more regional and national decision-making. The concept of sustainability is discussed, emphasizing the need for both environmental and economic sustainability. The future of the rural workforce is explored, with a focus on automation and improving working conditions. The conversation concludes with a reflection on confidence levels in rural businesses, highlighting the passion and innovation of young farmers.
Takeaways
- Transition is a key factor that will shape rural businesses in the coming years, particularly in terms of food quality, consumer needs, environment, climate, and ownership consolidation.
- Connection is another important theme, highlighting the need to bridge the gap between EU policy and rural areas, as well as fostering connections within the agri-food chain and promoting sustainability.
- The recent EU elections have seen a rise in right-wing and far-right parties, which may have implications for the direction of green policies and the allocation of funds for rural areas.
- The trend of consolidation and the importance of being fit for purpose are key considerations for rural businesses. Being able to meet consumer needs, retain local support, and demonstrate sustainability are crucial for long-term success.
- The EU's focus on food security and the lessons learned from recent crises highlight the need for a re-evaluation of the role of agriculture and self-sufficiency within the EU.
- The de-ruralisation of the political voice in the UK and the growing divergence between political rhetoric and actual support for rural businesses is a challenge that needs to be addressed.
- Winners in the agri-food sector are those who can meet consumer needs, demonstrate sustainability, and invest in the future, while losers are those who fail to adapt to changing market demands and regulations. Trends in rural businesses include a focus on sustainability, diversification of business models, local consumption, digital transformation, and generational renewal.
- Infrastructure, both digital and physical, is crucial for the success of rural businesses.
- Sustainability encompasses both environmental and economic aspects and is essential for the resilience of rural businesses.
- Automation and improving working conditions are key considerations for the future of the rural workforce.
- Confidence levels in rural businesses are influenced by challenges but are also driven by the passion and innovation of young farmers.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Ben meets Will Oliver, the 2022 Farmers Weekly Arable Farmer of the Year who also raises poultry indoors in Leicestershire.
Ben meets Kirsty and Aimee Budge who run the only monitor farm on the Shetland Islands.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Ben speaks to entrepreneur and best selling author Hannah Russell, including her top social media tips.
Ben meets Francesca Cooper, a rural surveyor turned farmer who now farms with her business partner on the Isle of Wight.
You can find Jo on LinkedIn here or on Instagram here.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Ben explores rural innovation, the butterfly effect and how even small changes can have a big impact.
Ben discusses the importance of being self-compassionate and how it make you more resilient.
Ben is joined by Andrew Hepworth-Smith to review the economic landscape for rural businesses in 2024.
Chloe Revill is the co-founder of Change in Nature, a business that helps you to think differently by bringing you out into nature. We explore the benefits of spending more time in nature.
Do you need help with boosting your sales? Ben is joined by business coach Tara Best to get her top tips on developing a sales mindset.
Ben speaks to Holly Thomson who is the co-founder of a new rural publication - The Countrywoman's Guide, profiling stories from the countryside.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
You can find out more about the Edenbridge and Oxted Agricultural Show here.
What is the pomodoro technique and how can it help you to be more efficient with your time?
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
For the Rural Planning Co visit their website here.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.
Link to the Sleep Foundation
Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Link to the Women in Food and Agriculture Mentoring programme - deadline 14th July .
Link to Henry Plumb Foundation.
Contain's Milly's 'big reveal' - listen on for an exclusive update about where Milly is going next...
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:53 Milly comes in.
3:26 Clare comes in.
3:46 Milly introduces herself.
4:21 Clare introduces herself.
5:36 The Women in Food and Agriculture Mentorship Programme.
6:39 How did Milly get involved with it?
8:00 Milly and Clare's first meeting.
9:40 How does Clare and Milly's mentoring relationship work?
10:58 Monthly meets.
11:26 Clare introduced Milly to another business owner in Ireland.
13:09 The benefits of mentoring for Milly.
14:53 The benefits for Clare as a mentor.
16:00 Rural Pod Media promo message.
16:52 What is the right time to take on a mentor?
19:20 Setting expectations.
22:00 Mentoring can be in all areas of life or business.
22:10 Milly's 'big reveal'
27:08 Focus on the listeners - what advice would Milly and Clare give to someone looking at mentoring?
30:05 What do Milly and Clare do so they are focussed on their goals?
32:42 Shout outs - Milly is on @millyfyfe (all the platforms); CIC is No Fuss Meals for Busy Parents. Alltech is @alltech. Clare is on LinkedIn.
34:45 Ben rounds up the episode.
You can find out more information about Perennial CFO here.
This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. RuralPod Media or Perennial CFO accept no responsibility for using any of the information contained in this podcast.
Joey's handles:
Twitter - @JoeydeWit_
Email - joey@perennialcfo.com
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:40 Joey comes in and talks about his family farming background and his interest in numbers.
5:10 Joey's background in banking.
6:30 Joey recognises the opportunity for the new business.
7:07 Why work with an advisor?
8:23 What is a fractional CFO? What services does Joey provide?
10:30 Joey's system of 6 steps - baseline requirement starting with a financial health check.
12:45 Cashflow.
14:52 Costs and keeping a handle on them.
15:40 Book keeping as a bottle neck for the business.
18:00 Chart of account.
20:10 Reconciliation of accounts.
22:40 Message about RuralPod Media.
23:31 Using and understanding your numbers and the benefits of this.
26:46 Going beyond a basic cashflow forecast.
28:40 KPIs
31:00 Keeping accountability
32:14 Forecasting and how far ahead is it useful to forecast?
36:03 How do banks look at a business?
36:36 The 5 C's of Credit
41:16 The Amazon Business Fly Wheel (Joey's interpretation)
46:00 Joey's handles - twitter @JoeydeWit_; Linkedin ; joey@perennialcfo.com
46:56 Ben rounds up the show.
Ben chats to Amanda Marshall, the founder of Devon based outdoor clothing business 3 Donkeys.
You can find 3 Donkeys on their website here.
Insta and facebook @3donkeysclothing ;
twitter @3donkeysltd
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:02 Amanda comes in
2:14 The 'why' of 3 donkeys and how Amanda spotted a gap in the market.
4:48 Was Amanda surprised when she realised there wasn't anything else out there to fit the need...
6:40 After the prototype.
7:28 What's in the name - Amanda's three donkeys/
9:20 Some things happen without planning - spotting new opportunities.
10:44 Amanda's advice to new entrepreneurs
12:30 Go for it!
13:00 You have to have resilience.
13:22 RuralPod Media message.
14:12 The exciting and positive side of running a business for Amanda.
16:07 Starting a business during Covid.
17:35 All 3 donkeys' coveralls are made in the UK
18:27 As a rural business are there any particular challenges or opportunities by being a rural business?
20:44 The size of the market.
22:12 What drives Amanda?
23:30 Inspiring stories.
23:48 Five years time.
25:00 What does Amanda do so she keeps focussed on her goals?
26:18 www.threedonkeys.co.uk ; all social media platforms @3donkeysclothing ; twitter @3donkeysltd
27:12 Ben rounds up
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
For more on Claire visit: clairetaylormedia.com
Today’s episode is mostly for farmers looking to diversify their businesses and thinking of how to finance these ventures.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:03 Andrew comes in.
2:55 Andrew talks about himself and his business.
4:11 Today we are talking about farm diversification. Staying broad, what are some typical enquiries that Andrew gets from farmers?
6:09 Has there been a spike in interest in diversification from a finance point of view?
7:26 How have farmers historically viewed debt and has that shifted?
10:36 What are lenders looking for and considering?
13:59 How do lenders view established businesses and new businesses?
16:39 Taking an example farm and how they might diversify.
21:47 Message about RuralPod Media.
22:36 Financial planning and projections.
24:20 What time process does it take?
26:26 Attitudes to risk.
29:56 What does Andrew do to keep focussed?
32:30 How to get in touch with Andrew - ahs@ahsfinance.co.uk
33:17 Ben rounds up.
A solo episode with Ben on happiness in life and work and why checking in on what we are grateful for is important.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
This week's call to action
Write down 3 things that you are grateful for in life.
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
1:47 Checking in with yourself.
3:00 Continue to push yourself.
3:18 The problem with goals.
4:31 RuralPod Media message.
5:23 How to improve our daily wellbeing.
5:39 Be kind.
5:52 Practising gratitude.
6:48 Happiness is a choice.
7:23 Conclusions.
8:13 Today's call to action.
Today is all about growth mindset and getting our minds into focus to improve not just our work lives but our entire lives, and develop and hone our skills in having a mindset of growth and development. There are few people better placed than my guest today to discuss this as in 2017 he launched a podcast to explore this very thing – the growth mindset podcast – and has since produced 9 seasons covering 240 episodes, speaking to a wide range of guests in addition to focussed solo episodes on all aspects of growth and mindset. Sam Harris is a serial entrepreneur. He is currently the co-founder and CEO of Podvine, an end to end social podcasting platform, but he has started multiple businesses in the past stretching right back to Pedal Power Transport Limited which he launched during his first year at Bristol University where he studied Biology. He’s also an investor, he’s travelled to over 60 countries and has some incredible stories.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
This week's call to action
Think about whether you have a fixed or growth mindset and consider what it is that you really want in life.
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
3:10 Sam comes in.
3:27 Sam doesn't like being put on the spot...
4:54 Thinking about death...
6:17 Sam talks about his background.
7:45 Where there is a problem find a solution.
8:32 Sam goes through some of his business ideas and realities and his learning points.
12:05 Travelling through Asia.
13:16 Being opportunistic and looking for new opportunities.
14:50 Growth Mindset Podcast - why and when did Sam start it?
18:05 Sam likes doing lots of different things...if you want to experience as much as possible in life...does a growth mindset have to mean growth across all aspects of life?
19:37 There are many different elements of life - how do you categorise life and is that a healthy thing to do?
21:27 Be in tune with what area of life you need to improve at any one time.
21:36 RuralPod Media message
22:28 Purpose.
24:38 Planning and prioritising time.
26:34 Sense of planning and thinking what you want to achieve.
27:20 How do you prioritise different aspects of life.
30:32 The edge of Sam's comfort zone.
32:22 Life is mostly seeking some sort of risk. What is an adventure?
32:38 How much should you fail in business?
35:24 How much does goal setting drive what Sam does?
37:38 Advice on how to grow in a certain direction? What about developing a growth mindset?
41:00 How does Sam stay focussed?
43:47 How do you find out more about Sam or get in touch?
45:04 Ben rounds up.
Today is all about combining growth and strategy and getting ourselves into that mindset of thinking about where we’re going but putting that through a commercial lens.
Veronica Still has vast amounts of experience in sales and commercial strategy across the media, events, technology and information services sectors. She has led large sales teams, managed budgets of over £15 million and has a broad skill set from negotiation to change management, advertising, sales, digital media and marketing. Apart from anything else she has a passion for success and driving things forwards and has given huge amounts of value to the teams that she has worked on and built. Currently at CH4B Vron has worked for many years in the agricultural world including nearly 10 years at Reed Business Information where she rose to the role of sales director for their agriculture portfolio, which included Farmers Weekly.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
This week's call to action
Create or update your strategic plan for growing your business using the tips that Vron gives.
Contact Vron
CH4b - Central Hub For Business - The Business Success Community (ch4b.co.uk)
Find Vron on Linkedin - Veronica Still
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:37 Vron comes in.
2:55 Vron explains her background in sales.
3:57 Is a commercial strategy any different to any other kind of strategy?
6:26 Why have a strategy in the first place?
7:42 Is a commercial strategy any different if you're a start up or a commercial business?
10:42 The GROW model.
14:27 Roadmapping
15:37 Sponsor message from RuralPod Media
16:28 SWOT analysis.
18:44 How regularly to update your strategy?
21:10 People and teams - how best to manage your team with goals and strategy in mind? And finding the right people to undertake certain actions as well as training and coaching people.
24:20 Understanding your customers.
27:16 Funnels.
29:20 Approaching your customer with your funnel.
30:39 Farmers - is it relevant to us?
33:13 Getting in touch with Vron - CH4B
34:19 Ben rounds up.
Today Ben is joined by skier, four-time Winter Olympian for Great Britain, presenter of Ski Sunday and much more besides: Chemmy Alcott. With a career high ranking of 8th in the World, 7 times as British National Overall Champion and the only British female skier to ever win a run in a World Cup, Chemmy is widely regarded as one of Britain’s greatest ever skiers.
East Sussex, where she was born, isn’t perhaps your typical start for a pro skiier but Chemmy began the sport from an early age and her talent was clear as a junior. At the age of 12 she became a member of the British Junior Alpine team and she spent every British summer between the ages of 11 and 19 out in New Zealand to train during their winter. As well as skiing Chemmy was a talented tennis player, but it was the winter sport that she chose to specialise in. She went on in her senior career to win numerous titles.
Threaded throughout this journey of sporting prowess however has been a tale of injury and overcoming this adversity. She has broken 49 different bones, including her neck at the age of just 11 and her leg following a severe crash whilst training in Canada in 2010. That accident required over 1000 minutes of surgery. Again and again Chemmy picked herself up and battled through the adversity to reach success once again. Since retiring from competing on the world stage after The Sochi Olympics in 2014, she has immersed herself in the world of broadcasting and the media. Among other things she now presents for the BBC on Ski Sunday and commentates on the World Cup Ski Series for Eurosport. Furthermore, she competed in ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2012, finishing 5th. She continues to push herself to tackle and achieve many new physical challenges and has completed the 100 mile road race in London for example and has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. Her passion for encouraging girls confidence is immense and her ‘X-elle’ scheme aims to develop girls confidence through sport.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
This week's call to action
To assess your own state of resilience as it is at the moment and remember an occasion when you overcame adversity. Be as present as you can.
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
3:57 Chemmy comes in.
4:39 What is resilience for Chemmy?
6:15 Skiing dominated Chemmy's life growing up - she explains more about how her childhood experiences prepared her for life.
8:50 Chemmy wants to be a great downhill skier.
10:19 How did Chemmy grow up to know how to keep picking herself up, dusting herself down and moving forwards?
12:48 Chemmy didn't think that she could release her full potential.
15:25 Channelling fresh thinking - but continued breakage of bones.
16:20 The rest of the team believes in Chemmy.
18:20 Chemmy's accident in 2010 and why it had such an impact.
22:10 Dancing on Ice.
23:45 It's ok to not win.
24:00 Goal setting.
25:50 What changes can you make on a daily basis?
26:04 What drives Chemmy?
28:36 What about advice for someone who is going through change?
30:46 Chemmy's broadcasting career and BBC Ski Sunday.
32:50 Chemmy's retirement from skiing.
34:50 What has Chemmy found most effective in encouraging others to perform at their best?
37:08 What does Chemmy do to keep focussed?
39:05 What does Chemmy have coming up this year in 2023?
40:27 Ben rounds up.
Today’s focus is recruitment and finding good people to help you develop your business. Often this is something that can hold small and medium sized businesses back, especially if you end up taking on the wrong people – that can cause an even bigger headache. Similarly if you find the right people and build a team of people who are committed, connected and driven to succeed for all of you then it can do amazing things for your growth potential. But how do you find those people? Well that is the specialism of my guest today. Hugh Pocock is on the show. Hugh is the co-founder and Director of Cultura Connect which is a bespoke recruitment agency aimed solely at the agricultural industry. Hugh is also a farmer and has worked at a senior level in the wider industry giving him a great perspective on recruitment and staff from many different angles.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
This week's call to action
How could taking on that next person help you to grow your business to that next level? Brainstorm this.
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:12 Hugh comes in.
2:57 Hugh wears a number of different hats - he explains his background.
5:02 Hugh's time at Cogent.
6:00 How and why did Hugh start Cultura Connect?
8:32 Two stage screening process - find and interview.
9:20 Hugh's passion for making a difference for the lives of candidates.
10:16 How has Cultura Connect evolved over its first few years?
11:38 Cultura Connect takes on new people itself.
12:20 How do you know what to look for in a good candidate?
13:42 Why use a recruitment consultant or an agency?
15:35 What, if anything, is unique about agriculture when it comes to recruitment?
16:50 Does Hugh find many candidates coming to Cultura Connect from non agricultural roles?
18:15 Fitting a job to a candidate.
19:10 How do you know if a candidate will fit well within a team?
21:34 How should a business design a new role?
22:53 How to support new staff in their role when they join?
28:35 Signs of a bad approach to going about recruitment.
30:24 What if someone isn't sure about taking the leap to take someone on?
32:22 What's next for Cultura Connect?
33:05 What does High do to keep focussed on his goals?
33:38 Follow Cultura Connect on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram @CulturaConnect or visit culturaconnect.co.uk
35:17 Ben rounds up the show.
Ben is joined today by Aly Robins who is a business coach and marketing consultant from Montana in the US. Aly also runs a website design agency called Snowy Mountain Marketing. More than anything Aly is completely passionate about agriculture and rural business and has a drive to help rural businesses flourish and people to be their very best. You can also find her over on the Agriculture and Rural Business Podcast .Today, we’ll be talking about getting an idea off the ground but also hear more about Aly’s business journey and some of her events and projects including Rural Reimagined.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk
This week's call to action
How can you 'think bigger' in your business?
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:54 Aly comes in.
3:22 Aly talks about her background.
4:42 Aly's first business.
6:30 Hiring a business coach.
7:07 Business is about problem solving.
11:10 Change your beliefs and change your life; change your mindset and you will change your life.
12:37 Rural stereotypes and how rural people see themselves.
15:00 Society has skewed the way we think and our beliefs and created a system that doesn't allow you to build wealth.
17:00 People who have an idea for a business but don't act on it.
19:25 Take a small action each day - what is the first step to take to make an idea reality?
20:10 Mindset
24:00 When something is questioned that is huge.
27:00 Is there anything unique about rural?
29:00 What main piece of advice would Aly give to someone trying to get their idea off the ground?
29:34 What is your business offer and how can you make your first sale?
30:50 Rural Reimagined
33:14 Aly's podcast
37:00 Where is Aly heading?
38:49 What does Aly do to keep focussed on her goals?
43:00 Ben wraps up the episode.
43:40 Today's action: think big.
How are your motivation levels? Do you find yourself sometimes more motivated than at other times? This episode explores this and more.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit benjamineagle.co.uk
This week's challenge
Think about your why. Why are you doing what you're doing? This should help you to keep motivated.
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
1:47 It is normal to not be motivated all of the time.
2:05 Definition of motivation: the desire to act in service of a goal.
2:58 Motivation is about finding your why.
3:24 Why is it important to think about motivation?
4:54 intrinsic v extrinsic motivation.
6:30 How to improve your motivation - make sure your goal aligns with your values.
7:34 Learning new things.
7:45 Progress takes time.
8:16 Remember your why.
8:25 Find an accountability partner.
8:48 Do the simple things well - eating, sleeping, resting, exercise.
9:04 Round up
How far along are you on your business’s journey towards achieving net zero? Have you already got there? Or is it something that you haven’t thought about. How are your energy costs looking and how sustainable is your energy source moving forwards? Have you already transitioned towards renewable sources, considered it or again, not even thought about it yet? That is what we discuss on this episode.
Ben Tansey and Neil Harrison are co-directors of ReHeat, based up in the north east of England. ReHeat was founded in 2011 to help businesses and communities transition towards renewables and indeed flourish without the environmental and financial costs of fossil fuels. From in house consultancy to project and engineering teams offering practical solutions for businesses Ben and Neil have built a very exciting rural business. Their client base is varied and includes businesses in various sectors from food and drink to local authorities, education, charities, hospitality, historic estates and rural communities. As well as discussing future energy challenges and solutions I want to hear a bit about Ben and Neil’s own business journey.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit benjamineagle.co.uk
This week's call to action
Put some time in your diary to consider your energy costs and sources and how you could adapt.
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:38 Ben Tansey comes in.
2:54 Ben Tansey talks about his background.
3:46 Neil Harrison talks about his background.
5:22 How has ReHeat developed over time?
6:57 Neil discusses the local source of a fuel and the end use.
8:10 Rural businesses are good at spending money locally.
9:05 What does 'sustainable, secure and affordable energy' mean to Ben and Neil?
10:50 The benefits of wood fuel.
11:40 If you are generating your own heat the cost will remain fairly constant.
13:48 Ben and Neil work with a wide variety of businesses - what is their take on how the rural sector is doing when it comes to the transition towards net zero?
16:54 What about the pace of change and the appetite for the uptake to change sources?
19:30 The upcoming ban on new fossil fuel based heating systems.
21:50 Working in some amazing places.
22:08 The challenges of working in remote areas.
23:50 Which business sectors are further along the net zero path than others?
25:23 What is holding people back from making the transition?
29:50 Supply of biomass.
32:12 We need to be planting more.
36:15 Recruitment and the wider business at ReHeat
40:50 Where is the business heading?
43:15 What do Ben and Neil do to keep focussed on their goals?
44:53 How do listeners get in touch - @reheatRT on twitter or visit www.reheat.uk.com
45:58 Ben rounds up.
Have you ever experienced burnout? Have you had work related stress? It's really important we look out for it in ourselves and other people and take steps to prevent it. This is what we discuss in today's episode.
References
Episode 19 with Tony Ilett on physical and mental fitness
Episode 21 with Lucy Williamson on nutrition
Article in the Journal of Rural Studies on farmer burnout
The Warning Signs of Unhealthy Stress (in Farmstrong)
About burnout on Farmstrong
Business Health Institute piece with stats on burnout.
Mental Health UK page on burnout
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit benjamineagle.co.uk
This week's challenge
Think about whether you are experiencing work related stress and what action you could begin to take to prevent it.
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:37 What is burnout?
3:04 Common signs of burnout.
4:08 Awareness of burnout is building.
4:25 Statistics to do with burnout.
5:50 Burnout in farming.
7:54 You may not recognise that you are burnt out.
8:36 Signs of unhealthy stress.
9:31 The twelve stages of burnout.
13:24 How to prevent burnout?
15:45 Talk about your feelings and check in with others.
17:09 Take breaks.
19:06 Have a good community around you.
21:30 Roundup of the show and call to action.
Today we’re talking about digital and tech and asking what the rural sector can do more of to embrace the digital space and how digital can help rural business to develop and move forward?
Host Ben Eagle is joined by:
Emma Simkiss (Managing Director at Freestyle)
Camilla Hayselden-Ashby (Head of Product at Fieldmargin)
Adam Short (Co-founder of MA Systems Ltd, owner of Temple Technologies Limited and a first generation farmer)
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit benjamineagle.co.uk
This week's challenge
Write down 3 ways that you could embrace digital more in your business.
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:29 Emma Simkiss introduces how this podcast episode came about and introduces how Freestyle sees itself within the rural space.
3:59 Camilla Hayselden-Ashby introduces Fieldmargin and how it helps farmers.
5:29 Adam Short talks about how he works with livestock farmers and the wider agricultural industry.
7:36 The challenge of encouraging people in the tech sector into the rural space.
8:59 The benefits of embracing digital for rural business (starting with Emma's view).
11:50 Tech and digital needs to solve problems.
12:41 How much of this is about digital education?
15:20 The change you need might be a 'process;' solution.
16:30 What are we already doing well in digital in the rural space?
23:15 Emma asks the question of how to bridge the gap between the tech sector and farmers who are struggling with cost of inputs etc.
26:40 What role does digital have when it comes to tackling some of the bigger challenges of our time, including the climate crisis?
28:05 The digitisation of connection and communication.
30:30 Diversity of jobs available in the tech and the rural space.
34:43 What do our guests do to keep focussed on their goals?
38:40 How to contact Emma, Camilla or Adam?
40:40 Ben rounds up the show.
Jamie Perry is the founder and Director of Lasting Change at The Hope Revolution Foundation. How do we instil more hope in society and how can we work together to make that sense of hope commonplace and an everyday thing?
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit benjamineagle.co.uk
jamieaiperry@thehoperevolutionfoundation.org.uk
or search The Hope Revolution Foundation on LinkedIn
This week's shout out:
Corner Cottage Bakery in Kineton.
The White Swan Pub in Kineton.
This week's challenge
Write down 3 things that you will do to instil positive change in your own organisation in the next month and how you will do those?
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:02 Jamie comes in.
2:40 How did the idea for the Hope Revolution Foundation begin?
5:47 Hope and soap
7:32 Jamie's definition of hope
9:16 Hope can do so much. It's a difficult time.
10:20 Jamie's experience with the Birmingham tornado.
12:10 What will Jamie do tangibly with the Hope Revolution Foundation.
15:50 Men and suicide and projects to aid prevention.
18:20 A project to help those with dementia.
21:24 How can rural businesses get involved?
23:47 Hope and mindset.
27:00 The power of small actions.
29:05 What drives Jamie?
31:30 What's next?
33:04 What does Jamie do to keep focussed on his goals?
36:04 Shout out for rural businesses (see above)
37:50 LinkedIn the best way to get in touch.
39:00 Ben rounds up the episode.
Startup Colorado is a fascinating nonprofit which supports rural entrepreneurs across the state of Colorado in the USA. Their services include a free peer to peer Entrepreneur network, scholarships, event programmes and various services which are provided in collaboration with other business support organisations. The organisation was originally founded in 2011 at the Silicon Flatirons Center at the University of Colorado Law School. Since 2017 it has been focussed solely on the foundation and success of the Colorado’s rural based enterpreneurs, who by themselves make up a really exciting community. Startup Colorado is all about fostering growth in these businesses through strategic networking, partnership development and collaboration.
Ben is joined by Margaret Hedderman who is the Communications Director at Startup Colorado.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit benjamineagle.co.uk
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:21 Margaret comes in
2:27 Margaret discusses Startup Colorado and introduces herself.
5:50 Rural business goes beyond just agriculture.
7:30 What challenges do Colorado's startups face?
10:45 Backstory to the organisation. It hasn't always been a non-profit.
17:37 How are businesses using the online network?
20:16 Startup Colorado helps people on different stages of their business journey.
22:15 Co-working spaces
23:18 What has Margaret learnt in terms of what works for supporting businesses?
26:34 the Startup Colorado podcast.
29:22 What does Margaret do to make sure she remains focussed on her goals?
30:15 A shout out for a rural business: Robin Hall who runs Town Hall; Tail Wind Nutrition
32:13 Where to go to find out more?
32:55 Ben rounds up the show.
Ben discusses SMART goals in today's episode and encourages everyone to review their goals for the year and perhaps set new goals.
SMART goals are: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit benjamineagle.co.uk
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
1:45 A goal is an intention.
3:10 What does SMART stand for?
4:10 'Specific'
6:55 'Measurable'
8:22 'Achievable'
10:46 'Relevant'
11:15 'Timely'
13:45 Keep flexibility
15:30 write your goals down and have an accountability partner
15:44 Round up for the day
16:19 Next week.
Ben speak to Ray Jenkins from RJ Trees and Hedging in Herefordshire.
Re the Open Farm Sunday shout Out click here to find out more about the breakfast meetings.
You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit benjamineagle.co.uk
Timestamps for today's episode
1:04 Ben introduces the show.
2:31 Ray comes in.
2:54 What is Ray's business?
3:55 High demand which is driven by British grown and grant funding.
4:20 Ben asks Ray to talk about his career before.
5:10 How did Ray get into growing in the first place?
6:15 Why did Ray decide to start his own business?
8:06 What advice would Ray give to somebody who is considering taking the leap to start their own business?
9:15 Shout out for Open Farm Sunday.
10:25 What is the why for Ray? What are his goals?
11:28 A typical week for Ray and the importance of planning and thinking ahead.
13:11 The challenge of inflation and cost of inputs.
14:13 Other challenges, including the weather.
14:55 Opportunities.
16:05 Managing people.
17:02 The nuts and bolts of the startup phase - what were the challenges at the startup?
18:43 Where would Ray like the business to be in 5 years time?
19:14 How does Ray stay focussed on his goals?
20:08 LinkedIn
21:14 Ben rounds up
21:25 Finish.
How to Succeed at Networking
Today on the podcast Ben is joined by Milly Fyfe to discuss networking and some tips for how you can become a better networker.
Milly Fyfe is a digital marketing and social media consultant and food and farming ambassador based in Northamptonshire. She writes the No Fuss Meals for Busy Parents blog and hosts the Countryside Kitchen Meets Podcast. You can buy her e-cookery book 'No Fuss Meals for Busy Parents' here.
You can find all of Milly's links, including her website on her linktree here.
You can follow Rural Business Focus on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocus
Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit benjamineagle.co.uk
Timestamps for today's episode
1:03 Ben introduction to networking
2:15 Milly comes in.
2:48 Does Milly enjoy networking?
4:05 What do you want to achieve from networking?
5:40 There are lots of organisations that have opportunities to network - what are some of them?
8:52 Ben explains how there is the temptation to be everywhere and do everything, so how to prioritise?
11:57 Ben and Milly discuss tips for successful networking. Never dismiss anyone in a room. Every conversation could be useful.
13:40 Milly goes to Coventry
16:34 Tips for before, during and after the networking event.
16:55 What to wear to the networking event?
19:10 What questions to ask at networking events?
21:29 Where to stand?
24:40 After the event - what to do?
28:30 Networking on social media - facebook, instagram, twitter
31:29 LinkedIn
34:39 What does Milly do to keep focussed on her goals?
36:11 Milly's shout out's for the week.
37:14 How to follow Milly
38:12 Ben rounds up.
Shout outs this week to: Young Farmers; Ladies in Beef; Ladies in Pigs; Daventry Farmers Discussion Group
Jez Fredenburgh has written for BBC Future, National Geographic, Farmers Guardian and Farmers Weekly, among others. She was Deputy Business Editor at Farmers Weekly for 2 years and she recently produced and hosted the main interview on Farmers Guardian’s weekly podcast, Over the Farm Gate.
You can find here jez-fredenburgh.com
Anna Jones has worked as a journalist and programme maker across a range of different media, including 15 years at the BBC, working on shows such as Countryfile, Farming Today and Costing the Earth. She has also produced documentaries for the BBC World Service and written articles and opinion pieces for a range of publications including The Guardian, Farmers Guardian, Farmers Weekly, Pig World and Farm Business. In 2018 she founded Just Farmers, which is a communications project for British agriculture, working to build confidence among farmers and growers about talking to the media, while also helping journalists and programme makers to find independent authentic voices at the grassroots of farming.
Anna's book, Divide: The Relationship Crisis Between Town and Country is available is all good book shops or on amazon.
You can find her at jonesthejourno.com
Anna's shout out was for Parc Carreg .
Timestamps
01:04 Ben introduces the show.
03:11 Anna and Jez come in.
03:30 Anna and Jez give more information about themselves ' 'why journalism?'
03:45 Anna knew what she wanted to do from the age of 12.
06:16 Jez answers the question 'why journalism'? for her.
10:30 A story that Anna is proud of - series produced and presented for the BBC World Service in 2018/2019.
11:49 A story that Jez is proud of - a story on coffee in Colombia.
13:55 Understanding context.
15:00 Challenging as well as helping your interviewee feel comfortable.
15:24 Anna discusses her Nuffield and how agriculture is covered in the mainstream media.
16:32 Just Farmers
18:00 Jez uses Just Farmers.
19:40 The challenges that journalists are under.
22:08 The pressures as a programme maker.
25:10 How do you decide what makes a good story?
28:10 The challenge of covering the same stories each year and every year, using examples from Countryfile.
30:10 Jez discusses explainers and guides and how tos, especially in the trade press.
31:30 How can listeners prepare themselves for when a journalist approaches them?
32:29 Would man on bus find this interesting?
33:20 The media does not have an agenda. The media does a lot of good.
35:22 Jez explains how the media is essential. Tips for dealing with journalists.
37:17 Jez explains how she remains focussed on her goals.
39:08 Anna claims that she 'just bumbles along'.
42:00 Jez and Anna's promotions.
Find out more about Pinstone here.
1:03 Ben introduces today's show
2:20 Hannah comes in
2:45 Hannah talks about her background
4:50 Hannah introduces Pinstone
6:58 The Business Barn survey
7:40 Hannah explains what we mean by public relations
9:52 PR as 'the dark arts' - is that fair?
12:40 Keeping up to date and knowledgeable
14:45 Is rural PR any different?
22:12 Consistency
22:49 Pinstone's podcast - the agri-food comms cast
25:39 The media and how PR and the media interact
29:00 Hannah's tips for working in PR
30:20 What does Hannah do so she keeps focussed on her goals?
32:16 Innocent Drinks and Aldi
33:06 More info on Pinstone
33:40 Ben wraps up the episode.
Chris Manley is a Nuffield scholar studying leadership around the world. He has worked for Muller UK and Ireland Group, Tesco, Sainsburys and Mole Valley. Last year he started the #walkwithme campaign to raise further awareness of the links between physical and mental health and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
For more about the #walkwithme campaign you can read this in Somerset County Gazette
Follow it on twitter @walk_withme
To get involved simply use the hashtag #walkwithme on any social media platform.
01:03 Ben introduces the episode
02:30 Chris introduces his background
03:34 Where did #walkwithme come from? How did it start?
05:10 Chris's free verse about walkwithme
06:52 Ben talks of his previous struggles with mental health
07:56 Other people have been getting involved with the campaign
10:05 Chris talks about Somerset
14:26 Interlude about the Quantocks (voiceover)
15:08 Chris talks about Nuffield and his scholarship about leadership
18:16 soft skills
19:56 ''We're not talking about agriculture in a positive light''
20:48 Interlude about the power of positivity (voiceover)
21:51 Is there still a stigma surrounding mental health?
25:00 When something unexpected happens it can derail what you are doing.
32:05 Interlude on knowing and understanding ourselves (voiceover)
32:26 How does Chris know when to get outside?
36:26 How this relates to farmers. When farmers need to be there they will be there.
36:56 Interlude on change (voiceover)
37:30 How change impacts on mindset
39:05 The biggest challenges faced by agriculture
41:00 Ben learning from mistakes!
44:19 Interlude on momentum (voiceover)
45:02 Starting is the hardest thing.
46:40 What legacy would Chris like #walkwithme to have?
47:52 Ben rounds up and finishes
You can follow Bizza on Instagram @adventuresofashepherdess
You can find out more about Eileen by visiting her website or find her on instagram @coachingwitheileen
Find out more about the retreat here.
01:04 Intro from Ben
01:38 Bizza introduces herself
02:44 Bizza explains how she came to go on a mindset retreat
05:20 Bizza explains what the retreat involved
06:03 Bizza looks at an obstacle or challenge that she has experienced in the past.
07:55 Overthinking
09:45 Procrastination and overuse of social media
11:23 What gets in your way of your goal?
14:52 Risks to take in 2023
15:41 Mood board
16:29 Who was there?
18:05 Values and opinions of others will differ from yours
1:03 Intro from Ben
2:20 Milly introduction
2:52 Milly discusses her own brand
4:38 Remaining consistent
6:53 Trademarking
9:37 What is a brand?
13:50 How to benchmark your brand?
15:48 Rebranding
17:05 Logos
18:56 Recognisable brands
21:31 Building a Brand on a Budget
24:47 Gifs
27:34 Grants
28:45 Good countryside brands
31:00 Round up
Milly's website - Milly Fyfe Marketing and PR Services - Food and Farming
Milly's LinkTree - MillyFyfe | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook | Linktree
Milly's blog post on why she decided to trademark her name and an explanation of the process that she went through.
Mentioned:
Muddy Matches - Online dating site for the countryside in the UK and Ireland
Farm Safety Foundation / Yellow Wellies - YellowWellies.org
Milly mentions: Snapseed (photo editing app); Capcut (video editing software); Linktree
Milly's Linktree with her various links - found here
Here is the content campaign calendar mentioned by Milly during the podcast episode - find it here
Accounts mentioned:
@FCNcharity (Farming Community Network)
@yellowwelliesuk (Farm Safety Foundation)
@glebefarmfoods
@fairfaxandfavor
@oldmillafp (Old Mill Accountants)
@macgregorphoto
Have you set your goals for 2023? Take some time to think about what you want to achieve?
- Let go of past regrets.
- Set goals.
- Find a mentor.
- Choose a form of exercise or a sport to focus on in 2023.
- Make a morning routine.
You can find out more about what Ben does by visiting benjamineagle.co.uk
Rural Living Show
Game Bird Feathers
Boo Cottage Botanicals
Incredible Brewing Company
Curworthy Cheese
Virtual Office Gem (Gemma's website)
Gemma promotes at the end:
Jenny Bush ('The Equine Business Assistant')
Hannah ('Apex VA')
Lucy's website - Lucy Williamson Nutrition- Nutritionist based in Greater London (lwnutrition.co.uk)
You can follow Lucy on Instagram here
Or on twitter here.
Or facebook here.
01:05 Ben starts the episode
02:12 Tony introduces himself
03:17 Tony's approach to understanding how people work
05:19 What are the benefits of getting out into the outdoors?
06:23 Stress - a good or bad thing?
08:10 You've got too much on to do exercise...think again
09:00 Even if you have a physical job - shouldn't you still be exercising?
16:20 How to start?
19:05 Stage it and don't try to do everything at once
23:51 How to find a good PT that works for you?
27:00 Should you have a fitness element in your morning routine?
31:22 Book recommendations from Tony . Ross Edgley 'The World's Fittest Book'; David Goggins 'Can't Hurt Me'.
35:44 Tony sums up
Business Finance Brokers website - Home - Business Finance Brokers Ltd
01:04 Ben starts the show
02:37 Georgina introduces herself and her background
04:36 Georgina talks about Business Finance Brokers
05:46 Commons reasons for sourcing finance
07:52 A look at interest rates historically
10:04 What are the options for taking out finance?
12:35 Georgina explains the process of taking out a finance agreement
Becki Leach is a Senior Consultant at Kite Consulting and in charge of their 'people' team.
Kite Consulting website - Kite Consulting - The UK’s leading dairy consultancy
01:04 Intro begins
02:54 Becki Leach enters and talks about Kite Consulting, her role in it and her experience when it comes to people management.
04:52 Ben and Becki discuss recruitment
08:14 How important is setting the right salary?
09:45 What are candidates looking for now?
13:29 How regularly should you be checking in with staff?
16:16 How important is listening?
19:25 What are the key mistakes that employers and managers make?
23:25 Working environment
26:11 Becki's book recommendations
28:49 Becki promotes Future Farmers of Yorkshire
You can follow Rebecca on instagram @myoutdoorsadventures ; @vampireoutdoors
Rebecca also gives a plug for the campaign group that she co-founded - EveryBody Outdoors (@everybodyoutdoors)
To find out more about Ben visit benjamineagle.co.uk
Website for the Rural Travel Guide
Megan's LinkedIn page
Megan mentions Hoe Grange Holidays and Hoppickers Rural Retreats as her shout outs.
Katie Bateman is the founder and Director of the Equine Show 247 as well as Head of Community Engagement, Sales and Operations at Virtual Expo 247.
Equine Show 247 website
Ben speaks to PR and social media expert Rhea Freeman about her new book. Rhea gives her top tips as to how best to promote your brand without breaking the bank.
Buy the book here
Rhea's website here
Milly's website
Milly's podcast (on Apple Podcasts)
Milly's blog (No Fuss Meals for Busy Parents)
Peter and Emma's website
Byre's Farm
Joanna at Farm Ness on Instagram
Long Island Retreats
Macbeths farm
Growbiz Scotland
Ben's website.
@ruralbusinessfocus
@ruralbf_pod
@benjy_eagle
https://www.simplecast.com/
Includes a brief introduction to most social media platforms as well as tips on what to do and what not to do.
Just Farmers (click here)
Emily is on twitter and instagram @emilyempower
Emily's LinkedIn page (click here)
Emily's website (click here)
Jiggle Jiggle (!)
Rhea Freeman's website (click here)
Simon Haley's LinkedIn Page (click here)
Sam Steggles - Fielding Cottages website (click here)
Ben's website (click here)
Cultivate Conference website (click here)
Host Ben introduces the podcast, explaining why it has been launched and what it's all about.
Rural Business Focus is a new podcast for rural businesses and people who want to start a rural business. Presented by rural podcaster Ben Eagle, RBF launches on Tuesday 5th July.