EcoFarm Aotearoa

Episodes

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  More Fertiliser Won't Fix Your Soil 14.10.2026 50m

  What if the problem with your pasture, garden or lifestyle block isn't a lack of nutrients, but the fact that your soil can't access the nutrients already there?In this episode of An Eco Farmer's Discovery, Stephen Brunton sits down with EcoFarm soil consultant Campbell Page to explore how soil testing can reveal what's really happening beneath the surface. From identifying nutrient deficiencies and understanding soil biology to recognising what weeds might be telling you, Campbell explains why it's important to investigate the root cause of a problem rather than simply applying more fertiliser.Whether you're managing a commercial farm, running a lifestyle block, growing your own vegetables or raising animals, understanding your soil can help you make more informed decisions about fertility, pasture health and food quality. The conversation also explores the relationship between soil chemistry and biology, the role of nutrient availability, and how a more targeted approach could help reduce unnecessary fertiliser spending.In this episode:Meet Campbell Page, EcoFarm's soil consultant for DIY soil testing clientsHow soil testing identifies nutrient levels and limiting factorsThe difference between total nutrients and nutrients available to plantsWhat soil structure and flocculation mean for air, water and biologyHow weeds like dock, gorse and thistles can provide clues about soil conditionsWhy the same soil principles apply to lifestyle blocks and commercial farmsHow soil chemistry and biology work together to cycle nutrientsWhy applying more fertiliser may not address the underlying problemHow nutrient availability can influence pasture growth and animal healthWhen to carry out soil and herbage testingHow targeted nutrient applications can help address specific deficienciesWhere to start if you want to improve your own soil
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  Your Soil Could Be Worth MILLIONS 07.10.2026 26m

  What if the biggest financial asset on your farm is already sitting in the soil? In this episode, Scott Gordon joins the conversation to break down the financial side of soil fertility, looking at the value of minerals locked up in the soil, the cost of unlocking them, and how understanding your soil could change the way you assess farm value, productivity and return on investment. We also explore the idea of treating soil like a bank account, where better fertility management can turn an underperforming asset into productive cash flow.In this episode:The hidden financial value of minerals in your soilWhy a soil test should be part of assessing a farm's valueThe "current account" and "term deposit" analogy for soil fertilityHow locked-up nutrients can limit farm productivityWhy total and available nutrients need to be looked at togetherThe potential financial impact of fixing limiting factorsHow soil fertility can affect animal health and productionWhy bankers could benefit from understanding soil productivityUsing evidence and soil data to make better farm decisionsHow improving soil can create more productive land without buying more hectaresThe real cost of doing nothing with the nutrients already in your soilOur E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  What Your Herbage Test Is Really Telling You 29.09.2026 41m

  Herbage testing can reveal a lot about what is happening in your soil, but timing and the right combination of tests are crucial. In this episode, Ewan and the team look at why mid to late spring can be such an important window for herbage testing in New Zealand, when multiple pasture species are actively growing and minerals can be better represented.The conversation explores the relationship between soil tests, herbage tests and soil biology, including trace minerals such as cobalt, selenium, nickel, boron and iodine. They also work through an anonymised farm example, looking at nitrogen, potassium, calcium, silicon, aluminium and other minerals to understand what the numbers may be showing about the wider soil system.They also revisit the response to the previous cropping episode, discussing how soil preparation, biology and nutrient cycling fit together, why plants such as wild turnip may be indicators of underlying soil conditions, and why soil testing should be the starting point when trying to understand what is limiting a farm.In this episode:Why mid to late spring is an important time for herbage testingHow different pasture species can affect the minerals showing in a herbage testWhy some trace minerals are difficult to assess accurately through soil testing aloneHow herbage testing can provide an indication of soil biology and mineral availabilityThe relationship between nickel, nitrogen and zincWhy silicon and aluminium are important when looking at weeds and soil conditionsHow soil tests and herbage tests can be used togetherWhat an anonymized farm herbage test can reveal about soil fertilityWhy soil testing should be the starting point when identifying limiting factorsHow soil biology can contribute to nutrient cycling after croppingWhat pasture plants and weeds may be telling you about the condition of the soilWhy accuracy and observation matter when making soil fertility decisions
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  Cultivation and Cropping: The Mistake That Costs Farmers Thousands 16.09.2026 49m

  Winter cropping can be expensive, risky and essential for getting livestock through the colder months. But what if the way we prepare a cropping paddock is actually setting it up to fail?In this episode, Ewan and the team dig into the thinking behind winter crops, soil preparation, carbon, nitrogen and the role of soil biology. They explore the idea of the “fake boost”, where spraying and disturbing the soil can create a rapid burst of growth, while potentially leaving the paddock depleted afterwards.The conversation looks at how farmers can approach cropping with more preparation, better timing and a focus on building the soil before the crop goes in. They also discuss cultivation, fallow periods, weeds, cyanobacteria, crop economics and why a cropping paddock doesn't have to be treated as a sacrifice.In this episode:Why winter cropping needs to be planned before this year's crop is even finishedHow building soil carbon before planting can support crop growthThe “fake boost” that can happen after sprayingWhy soil biology plays such an important role in decomposition and nutrient cyclingHow crop yields and cropping area affect the economics of winter feedWhy cultivation itself isn't necessarily the enemyThe role of fallow periods, timing and soil preparationWhy weeds may be responding to underlying soil conditionsHow cyanobacteria, fungi, bacteria and worms contribute to the soil cycleWhy measuring your soil carbon and nutrient inventory mattersOur E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  More Farming Questions Answered: Nitrogen, Fungi & More 21.08.2026 14m

  The questions keep coming! In Part 2 of our farming Q&A, we continue answering your comments, challenging conventional thinking and digging deeper into some of the biggest conversations around modern agriculture.In this episode:In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, the discussion turns to synthetic nitrogen, soil carbon, fungi, soil biology and the importance of questioning the systems we've come to rely on. We explore the argument that soil has its own natural nitrogen system, and ask what happens when we replace those natural processes with synthetic inputs.We also revisit the story behind the fungal "Control Alt Delete" experiment, including the use of different fungal species and the surprising changes observed in the soil and livestock. The conversation explores the different roles fungi can play in soil biology and their relationship with other microorganisms such as cyanobacteria.But ultimately, this episode comes back to a bigger question: how do we make better decisions on farm?Rather than simply accepting what we're told, Ewan and the team discuss the importance of asking questions, running trials, observing the results and staying open to new ideas. From unexpected solutions to long-term consequences of farming practices, this is another wide-ranging Q&A exploring how we can think differently about agriculture.Synthetic nitrogen and nature's nitrogen systemThe relationship between nitrogen and soil carbonThe hidden costs of synthetic nitrogenThe fungal "Control Alt Delete" experimentCordyceps and different fungal speciesFungi, soil biology and cyanobacteriaWhy independent trials and observation matterMaking farming decisions based on realityThe importance of questioning conventional practicesInnovation and finding unexpected solutionsMore questions from the EcoFarm communityIf you enjoyed Part 1, there's plenty more to dig into here. And as always, the goal isn't to tell you what to think, it's to encourage better questions, better observations and better conversations around farming.Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  Your Farming Questions Answered: Soil, Carbon, Glyphosate & More 13.08.2026 47m

  What are farmers actually asking about soil, carbon, regenerative farming and the future of agriculture?In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, Ewan Campbell sits down to work through questions and comments from our viewers, covering everything from soil carbon and comprehensive soil testing to cyanobacteria, crop production, glyphosate, organic farming and New Zealand's carbon policies.The conversation explores why testing and understanding your soil is so important, why Ewan believes farmers need to look at the whole biological system rather than individual inputs, and how better information can lead to better farming decisions.They also discuss the growing use of pine trees for carbon credits, whether New Zealand is making the most of its position as a food-producing country, and why producing higher-value, quality food could be a much better opportunity for New Zealand farmers.From soil testing and silicon to carbon sequestration and farming policy, this episode covers a wide range of questions and ideas with plenty of debate along the way.In this episode:- Soil carbon and carbon sequestration- Why comprehensive soil testing matters- Cyanobacteria and soil biology- Improving crop production and yields- Silicon and plant resilience- Pine trees, carbon credits and land use- Organic farming and premium food markets- Glyphosate and its impact on biological systems- Making better decisions on farm- Questions and comments from the EcoFarm communityIf you're interested in soil health, regenerative agriculture, farming innovation and the future of New Zealand agriculture, this episode is packed with ideas worth thinking about.Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  The Nitrate Debate: Here's What People Got Wrong 06.08.2026 35m

  A short clip from a previous episode sparked plenty of debate online, so Ewan Campbell is taking the opportunity to dive deeper into one of agriculture's most misunderstood topics: nitrates.In this episode:In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, Ewan unpacks the science behind the nitrogen cycle, explains the difference between nitrate and ammonium, and explores why so much confusion exists around nitrates in farming. Rather than focusing on symptoms, he looks at the biological processes that naturally convert nitrogen into plant-available proteins and why healthy soil biology is key to productive farms, cleaner waterways and healthier livestock.The conversation also examines how excess nitrate can impact pasture quality, milk production, animal health and water quality, while challenging some of the assumptions that have become accepted as "normal" within modern agriculture. Whether you agreed or disagreed with the original clip, this episode provides the full context behind the discussion and explains the reasoning in much greater detail.We Discuss: - The difference between nitrate and ammonium- Understanding the natural nitrogen cycle- How healthy soil biology converts nitrogen- Why excess nitrate can affect livestock health- The connection between nitrogen, waterways and food quality- Why current testing standards may be misleading- Practical ways to improve nitrogen efficiency on farmIf you're interested in regenerative agriculture, soil biology, livestock nutrition and practical farming solutions backed by observation and testing, this episode offers a fresh perspective on one of farming's biggest conversations.Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  Inside China's Massive Organic Farming Operation 29.07.2026 1h 23m

  China is changing the way it farms, and the scale of what they're achieving is staggering.In this episode:After returning from an agricultural study trip to China, Gavin Fisher shares what surprised him most: climate-controlled dairy barns, advanced monitoring technology, efficient nutrient recycling, and a national focus on producing premium-quality food rather than simply maximizing output.The conversation explores how China has transformed previously unproductive land into highly efficient farming systems while investing heavily in research, innovation and long-term thinking. It also raises an important question for New Zealand: are we doing enough to stay competitive in the global food market?From massive solar farms and electric vehicles to organic dairy production and export markets, Gavin shares firsthand insights into what he witnessed on the ground and what lessons New Zealand farmers can take from China's rapid agricultural development.Gavin Fisher's agricultural study trip through ChinaInside a 200,000-cow dairy operationWhy China is prioritizing food quality over quantityClimate-controlled farming and advanced technologyOrganic dairy and growing global demandTurning desert land into productive agricultureLessons New Zealand can learn from China's innovationWhy long-term thinking is shaping the future of farmingIf you're interested in regenerative agriculture, farming innovation, global food production and the future of New Zealand farming, this episode is packed with insights you won't hear in mainstream discussions.Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠"Inspired" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  News Outlets Throwing Blame To Farmers! 17.07.2026 41m

  A new New Zealand study has linked nitrate levels in drinking water to premature births, but does that tell the whole story?In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, we unpack the latest media reports surrounding nitrates and explore what they may be overlooking. Campbell questions why the conversation always seems to stop at identifying the problem, rather than addressing the biological systems that can solve it.The discussion covers how healthy soils naturally cycle nitrogen, why cyanobacteria are central to this process, and how improving soil biology can reduce nitrate leaching while increasing farm profitability. We also dive into the importance of mineral balance, the relationship between nickel, selenium, copper and zinc, and why testing and measuring should replace assumptions.Rather than simply monitoring environmental issues, this episode looks at practical, evidence-based ways farmers can restore healthier soils, cleaner water and more resilient farming systems.We Discuss:The latest nitrate and drinking water researchWhy correlation isn't the same as causationHow healthy soil biology reduces nitrate leachingThe role of cyanobacteria in nitrogen cyclingWhy test and measure beats guessworkMineral interactions: nickel, selenium, copper & zincImproving livestock nutrition naturallyWhy profitability and environmental outcomes can improve togetherOur E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  We Sent Steve To A Coal Mine! Reefton Episode Part 2 01.07.2026 16m

  In this episode, Stephen heads to the West Coast for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Reefton coal mine to see firsthand how mining by-products are transformed into valuable inputs for regenerative farming.Joined by the mine team, Stephen follows the journey from freshly mined coal through the wash plant, stockpiles, rehabilitation areas, and fertilizer blending operation, uncovering the geology, engineering, and innovation behind products now being used on farms across New Zealand.The tour highlights how materials once considered waste are now being repurposed into EcoFarm soil products, while also showcasing mine restoration, environmental management, and the people driving practical solutions on the ground.Through the EFA lens, this episode explores the intersection of mining, soil biology, and agriculture, demonstrating how collaboration between industries can unlock new opportunities for farmers.We discuss:A full behind-the-scenes tour of the Reefton coal mineHow coal is processed, washed, and prepared for different industriesThe surprising journey from mine by-products to EcoFarm fertilizersSoluble silica, humates, papa rock, and mineral blendingMine rehabilitation and restoring land after extractionHow EcoFarm products are mixed and shipped around New ZealandThe people, machinery, and innovation behind one of New Zealand's most unique farming partnershipsPurchase Our E-Book!⁠https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/⁠Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠⁠
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  Can Mining Improve Agriculture? 26.06.2026 46m

  In this episode, Stephen and Ewan are joined by Jimmy, a lifelong West Coast coal mining expert, to explore the surprising connections between geology, mining, soil health, and modern agriculture.What begins as a conversation about coal quickly expands into the history of New Zealand's geology, the science behind different coal types, mine rehabilitation, and how mining by-products are helping improve soil function and farm productivity.Drawing on decades of experience in the mining industry, Jimmy shares insights into how coal is formed, processed, and used far beyond energy production, while also challenging common perceptions around environmental impact, land restoration, and the future of New Zealand's mineral resources.Through the EFA lens, this episode examines how overlooked natural resources, practical problem-solving, and independent thinking can create opportunities for both farming and industry.We discuss:• How coal is formed and why different coal types have different uses• Mine rehabilitation and restoring land back to productive use• The surprising role of coal by-products in improving soil health• Clean coal, energy efficiency, and common misconceptions about mining• Why soluble silica and coal humates are becoming valuable farm inputs• The future of New Zealand's mining industry and primary sector• What farming and mining can learn from each otherPurchase Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  The Farming Discovery That Turned Conventional Agriculture Upside Down 21.06.2026 48m

  In this episode, Stephen and Ewan are joined by Robin Claire, host of Cultivated Audio, for a fascinating conversation exploring soil health, regenerative agriculture, and the hidden forces shaping the future of farming.What begins as a discussion around farming systems and mineral balancing expands into a deeper exploration of soil biology, electrical conductivity, microbial life, livestock health, and the complex relationships connecting soil, plants, animals, and people.Drawing on decades of hands-on farming experience, Ewan shares the observations and discoveries that led him to investigate the electrical properties of soil and how minerals, biology, and natural systems work together to drive productivity, resilience, and ecosystem health.Through the EFA lens, this episode challenges conventional agricultural thinking and highlights the importance of observation, curiosity, and farmer-led innovation in building healthier farms and food systems.We discuss:• The hidden electrical activity within healthy soils• How minerals influence plant, animal, and human health• The role of cyanobacteria, microbes, and biology in regenerative farming• Why observation and on-farm experimentation matter• Building resilient farming systems that work with natureGuest:Robin ClaireHost of Cultivated AudioWebsite:https://cultivatedaudio.com/Listen to Cultivated Audio:https://open.spotify.com/show/4ydCU8Rh44ZcSXz0tfZgOz?si=ada90fb16e5a4cd0Purchase Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  The $3 Billion Fertiliser Plant Nobody Needed 21.06.2026 44m

  In this episode, Stephen and Ewan unpack the controversy surrounding a proposed $3 billion lignite-to-fertiliser plant in Southland, New Zealand, and ask a bigger question: why are we investing billions into synthetic nitrogen production when healthy soils already produce nitrogen naturally? What begins as a discussion around fertiliser security and global supply chains quickly becomes a deep dive into soil biology, carbon, trace minerals, and the hidden systems that drive productive farming.Through the EFA lens, the conversation explores how rebuilding soil biology through trace minerals, carbon growth, and biological function can reduce fertiliser dependence while improving profitability, animal health, environmental outcomes, and food quality. The episode challenges modern agriculture’s reliance on synthetic inputs and argues that many farmers may already have the solution beneath their feet.We discuss:• Why healthy soil biology naturally fixes nitrogen• The difference between synthetic and biologically fixed nitrogen• How trace minerals influence productivity and animal health• Why increasing soil carbon improves profitability and resilience• How farmers can reduce dependency through better soil managementOur FREE E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  The Most Profitable Farms Are Doing This Differently 19.06.2026 53m

  In this episode, Stephen and Ewan explore the forces shaping modern agriculture and ask a challenging question: are farmers really in control of their own industry?From farm plans and environmental compliance to organic markets, profitability, carbon, and industry influence, the conversation examines how farmers can use testing, observation, and real-world results to make better decisions for their businesses and their land.Drawing on decades of farming experience, Ewan argues that healthy soils, lower inputs, and farmer-led innovation are creating opportunities that many conventional systems continue to overlook.Through the EFA lens, this episode challenges accepted narratives around farming, regulation, productivity, and sustainability while highlighting the importance of independent thinking and measurable outcomes.We discuss:• Who really influences the direction of modern agriculture• Why testing and measurable outcomes matter more than assumptions• The profitability of organic and low-input farming systems• Farm plans, regulation, and farmer autonomy• Building resilient businesses through independent thinking and innovation60 Minutes Video: https://youtu.be/3GDm3Y9wAuA?si=GccuvHuyAhRruUggGuardian Rocks Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E8aChTA_HM&t=3sPurchase Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  Farmers Are Focusing on the Wrong Thing 10.06.2026 56m

  In this episode, Stephen and Ewan explore one of the most overlooked yet important drivers of soil health: cyanobacteria.What starts as a discussion around regenerative farming, cover crops, and soil carbon quickly expands into a deep dive on soil biology, nutrient cycling, trace minerals, plant health, animal health, and the hidden processes that build productive farming systems from the ground up.Drawing on decades of on-farm observation and testing, Ewan explains why cyanobacteria may be the foundation of healthy soils, how they contribute to carbon sequestration, nutrient availability, and biological function, and why many current farming practices may be working against them.Through the EFA lens, this episode challenges conventional approaches to soil management and highlights the importance of understanding biological systems before reaching for costly inputs and interventions.We discuss:• Why cyanobacteria are the foundation of healthy soil ecosystems• The relationship between soil biology, carbon, and nutrient cycling• Cover crops, regenerative farming, and what's often being overlooked• How trace minerals influence plant, animal, and soil health• Building productive farming systems by fixing the soil first
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  Who Really Controls New Zealand Farming? 05.06.2026 48m

  In this episode, Stephen and Ewan explore the changing landscape of New Zealand agriculture, from the traditions of Gypsy Week and share milking to the growing pressures facing modern farmers.The conversation dives into farm profitability, organic opportunities, soil health, environmental compliance, and the importance of producing high-quality food for premium markets. Ewan challenges conventional agricultural thinking and shares why healthier soils, stronger biological systems, and farmer-led innovation could be the key to building a more resilient future.Through the EFA lens, this episode examines how farmers can regain control of their businesses by focusing on productivity, profitability, and environmental outcomes that are measured through real-world results rather than assumptions.We discuss:• The history of Gypsy Week and how farming has changed over time• Why rising input costs are squeezing farm profitability• The opportunities emerging in organic and premium food markets• How soil health impacts productivity, profitability, and the environment• Taking control through testing, observation, and farmer-led decision makingPurchase Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  Is Your Favourite Politician Voting to Destroy New Zealand’s GE Free Future? 22.05.2026 1h 28m

  In this episode, Stephen and Ewan sit down with John Carapiet from GE Free New Zealand to unpack the growing debate around genetic engineering, GMO regulation, and the future of farming in New Zealand.What begins as a discussion around the government’s proposed Gene Technology Bill and the new Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Amendment Bill quickly expands into a much bigger conversation about food sovereignty, corporate influence, farmer responsibility, environmental contamination, and the long-term future of agriculture.Through the EFA lens, the conversation explores whether New Zealand risks losing one of its greatest advantages — its GE-free food reputation — in pursuit of patented technologies and synthetic solutions. The discussion dives into soil biology, export markets, consumer trust, liability, glyphosate, animal welfare, and the growing tension between industrial agriculture and regenerative farming systems.The episode challenges the idea that more technology automatically equals better outcomes and asks a deeper question: are we solving the root causes of agricultural problems, or creating new ones?We discuss:• The proposed Gene Technology and HASNO amendment bills• Why New Zealand’s GE-free status matters globally• The difference between GMO, GE, and gene editing• Liability risks for farmers and contamination concerns• How patents and corporate interests influence agriculture• The connection between soil health, food quality, and human health• Why consumers still demand non-GMO food• The future of regenerative farming in New ZealandOur FREE E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  Regenerative Farming Meets the Food Industry (feat. Rensha Bouwer) 29.04.2026 1h

  In this episode, Stephen, Ewan, and special guest Rensha Bouwer unpack the growing disconnect between food production, food quality, and the systems that sit between farmers and consumers. What begins as a conversation around award-winning pies, artisan cheese, and sourcing quality ingredients quickly reveals a much deeper issue: many of the best food producers and farmers are trapped inside commodity systems that fail to reward quality, animal welfare, and true nutritional value.Through the EFA lens, the discussion shifts toward reconnecting farming, food, and community. By focusing on healthy soils, thriving animals, low-stress handling, and direct relationships between producers and consumers, farmers can create premium products that stand apart from conventional systems. The episode explores how regenerative farming, local processing, and independent trade could reshape the future of food while reducing dependence on centralised industries and input-heavy agriculture.We discuss:• Why healthy soil and healthy animals create better quality food• How commodity systems hide the value of premium produce• The impact of stress and transport on meat quality• Why local food systems and direct trade matter• The challenges chefs face sourcing truly high-quality ingredients• How regenerative farming can improve both nutrition and profitabilityOur FREE E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
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  The Hidden Gold in Your Soil (And How to Unlock It) 23.04.2026 35m

  In this episode, Stephen and Ewan unpack the hidden potential within our soils and challenge the conventional approach to fertility, pH, and input-heavy farming. What begins as a discussion on soil chemistry reveals a deeper issue: farmers are often managing only what’s immediately available, rather than unlocking the vast reserves already present in the soil.Through the EFA lens, the conversation shifts toward soil as a living, self-regulating system. By activating biology, increasing carbon, and removing limiting factors, farmers can convert locked-up minerals into plant-available nutrients, naturally balance soil function, and reduce reliance on expensive synthetic inputs, leading to more profitable and resilient farming systems.We discuss:• Why pH alone doesn’t tell the full story• The gap between available nutrients and total soil potential• How biology unlocks minerals like calcium• The role of carbon and organic matter in soil function• Reducing input costs by working with natural processes🎧 Music Credit:Music: Exciting Trailer by Kevin MacLeodSource: https://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/music.html
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  Chapter 28: Reality Check | An EcoFarmers Discovery Audiobook Companion Podcast 17.04.2026 17m

  An EcoFarmer’s Discovery Chapter 28: Reality CheckThank you for listening to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: The Companion Podcast, this is the final Ewan Campbell’s journey throughout the book.In this episode, Stephen Brunton and Ewan unpack the final chapter of the book, Chapter 28: Reality Check, bringing the series to a grounded and thought-provoking close. This conversation steps back from theory and dives into the practical realities of farming, challenging listeners to rethink assumptions, question systems, and take ownership of their results.Ewan emphasises the critical importance of benchmarking as a starting point for any farming system, highlighting how data collection across soil, water, and herbage provides not only a pathway for improvement, but also protection against misinformation, poor advice, and bureaucratic pressure. Without a clear baseline, progress becomes impossible to measure, and claims—whether from farmers or regulators—lack real substance.The discussion explores the barriers to adopting biological and regenerative practices, with a strong focus on mindset, education, and the willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. Ewan shares insights into how small, consistent changes—guided by real data—can lead to measurable improvements in productivity, environmental outcomes, and farm resilience over time.A key theme throughout the episode is the importance of working with nature rather than against it. From protecting soil biology to reducing reliance on sprays and external inputs, Ewan reinforces that long-term success comes from understanding natural systems and allowing them to function as intended.The episode also touches on the broader challenges facing modern agriculture, including industry narratives, policy pressures, and the influence of outdated thinking. Through honest reflections and practical examples, this final chapter encourages farmers to think independently, embrace learning, and move forward with confidence.At its core, this is a “reality check” not just for farming systems, but for the way we think about progress, responsibility, and success in agriculture. It’s a powerful conclusion that ties together the entire journey, leaving listeners with both clarity and motivation for what comes next.We discuss:• Why benchmarking and data collection are essential before making changes• How soil, water, and herbage testing guide better decision-making• The role of data in protecting farmers from poor advice and bureaucracy• Common mental barriers to adopting regenerative practices• Why protecting soil biology is key to long-term farm success• The importance of working with nature instead of against it• How independent thinking can drive better outcomes on-farmPowered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – ⁠⁠⁠www.efa.nz⁠⁠⁠Link to our free ebook!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:⁠ https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠