Boots Off Log On!™

Episode 57: Is growing Australian coffee right for you? With Jos Webber and David Peasley

In this episode of Boots Off Log On!, we’re excited to welcome two special guests, farmers Jos Webber and David Peasley. They share their firsthand experiences of cultivating coffee in Australia, taking us through the unique challenges and rewards of the industry. Based in New South Wales, Jos and David offer insights into their journey of building a reputation for Aussie-grown coffee.
They also introduce us to the Australian Coffee Growers' Manual, a guide they created to help other growers—new and experienced alike—learn the ropes of coffee farming. With practical advice on everything from picking the best location to keeping pests in check, their manual aims to make coffee farming easier and more successful.
Throughout the conversation, Jos and David open up about what sets Australian coffee apart and its distinctive qualities. They also discuss the potential for this industry to expand and become a part of the Australian agricultural landscape. Tune in for a fascinating look at how innovation and determination are driving the Australian coffee industry forward.

Episode 56: Incorporating active honey production on your farm with Damian Green

Step into the fascinating world of beekeeping and sustainable agriculture with Damian Green, founder of Bee Central, in this episode of Boots Off Log On! Damian shares his journey from bee enthusiast to visionary leader, founding Bee Central to partner with farmers and repurpose unused land by planting tea trees, which help bees produce premium activated medicinal honey.
With bees responsible for pollinating 40% of the food we eat, Damian underscores just how vital bees are—not only to agriculture but also to humanity’s survival. He discusses their indispensable role in Australian agriculture, enhancing pollination and bolstering food production, and educates listeners on the unique properties of activated honey.
Throughout the episode, Damian also discusses the pressing issues facing the bee industry, from biosecurity threats to the need for community action to preserve bee populations. He emphasises the importance of education and public involvement in supporting bee health and sustainability.
Whether you’re interested in agriculture, environmental sustainability, or the marvels of bees, this episode provides inspiring insights into how Bee Central’s work enhances land use and contributes to the future of sustainable agriculture through the production of high-quality honey.

Episode 55: The farming game with Bill Malcolm

In this episode, we are joined by Professor Bill Malcolm, a longstanding leader in Australian agricultural economics and education, and Professor at The University of Melbourne. Since the 1980s, Bill has played a pivotal role in shaping farm management thinking across the industry.
Bill is also co-author of the widely recognised textbook 'The Farming Game', which has become an essential resource for agribusiness students all across Australia.
During our discussion, Bill shares his insights on navigating the unpredictable nature of farm planning, making informed risk management decisions, and understanding the evolving landscape of carbon farming. He also touches on the fast-changing dynamics that farmers encounter today.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of Bill’s approach to farm management, developed through decades of experience, and how these strategies can help address the ongoing challenges of modern agriculture. Tune in to explore Bill’s perspective on driving farm success.

Episode 54: Cultivating a positive money mindset for farmers with Hayley Grosser

In this episode, we’re joined by Hayley Grosser from The Abundant Farmer, a money coach with a passion for helping farmers take control of their finances. Hayley shares her journey to becoming a money coach and highlights the financial gaps she discovered in her own farming business.
The conversation delves into the importance of building a positive relationship with money, with Hayley explaining how budgeting and cash flow planning can be powerful tools for better resource management and outcomes. She also stresses the value of approaching financial decisions with a mindset of possibility, rather than letting emotions dictate actions.
Hayley underscores the need for farmers to treat farming as a business, making strategic financial decisions and viewing money as a tool to drive success. The episode also touches on the challenges of generational succession, with Hayley advocating for open communication and understanding between generations to better manage farm finances.
Tune in for practical insights on how to cultivate strong financial habits and take a proactive approach to managing your farm’s finances.

Episode 53: Lab grown meat with George Peppou

In this episode, George Peppou, co-founder and CEO of Vow, shares how his innovative food tech startup is transforming the future of meat production. With a background as both a scientist and former chef, George explains the cutting-edge process behind producing cultured meat and its potential to meet growing global food demands.
He explores the science behind cultivating animal cells, how Vow’s products are designed to offer unique sensory experiences, and the promising future of sustainable food production. George also explains how Vow is working alongside traditional meat sources to create a more balanced food system.
Tune in to explore the exciting world of cultured meat and the possibilities it holds for the future of food.

Episode 52: Sustainability and profitability in the beef supply chain with Ben Dwyer

In this episode, Ben Dwyer from Harvest Road Group shares his insights on balancing sustainability and profitability in the beef supply chain. With years of experience in livestock production, Ben delves into the strategies that successful producers are embracing to optimise both environmental and financial outcomes.
Key topics include the challenges of managing livestock in Australia's unique environment, the importance of animal welfare for both ethical and economic reasons, and how producers can adapt their operations to achieve better outcomes for their animals, their business, and the planet.
Tune in for practical insights on how to align sustainability with profitability in livestock production.

Episode 51: Breaking the 3 generation curse with Ben Law

In this episode, Ben Law from AgriCoach shares his extensive experience in wealth and succession planning for farming families. With over 20 years of advising rural producers, Ben offers a deep dive into the strategies and processes essential for effective farm financial management.
The discussion reveals that while wealth can create opportunities, it also brings its own set of challenges. Ben addresses the "three generation curse" and emphasises the importance of proactive wealth management to avoid common pitfalls. The conversation explores how farmers can look beyond immediate farm operations to focus on long-term family wealth, tackling succession and wealth transfer issues before they arise.
Key topics include the impact of communication breakdowns, the importance of preparing the next generation, and the need for a unified strategic plan to ensure successful transitions. Ben also highlights the crucial role of family values and leadership in navigating these complex issues.
Tune in to gain practical insights and actionable advice on managing wealth and succession for your farming business.

Episode 50: You are not your farm with Jack Owen

In this insightful episode, Jack Owen, a farmer and author, shares his unique journey from the fields to the world of self-improvement literature. Jack brings a fresh perspective to the agricultural sector, focusing on the often-overlooked aspects of personal growth and well-being in farming.
Jack discusses the critical importance of vulnerability, purpose, and gratitude in the farming industry, highlighting how these elements can lead to a more fulfilling and successful farming life. He underscores the significance of networking, continuous learning, and embracing innovation, urging farmers to focus on personal development alongside their professional endeavours.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of self-awareness and balance in farming. The conversation covers essential topics such as finding balance between hustle and self-care, and the need for a growth mindset in farming.
Tune in to learn from Jack Owen's transformative perspectives and discover practical advice on embracing vulnerability, fostering a growth mindset, and achieving personal fulfilment alongside professional success in your farming journey.

Epiosde 49: Smart risk taking in the Australian farming game with Eric Nankivell

In this insightful episode, Eric Nankivell, an experienced farm consultant, shares his journey in the agricultural sector and the unique challenges and opportunities of farming across Australia. 
Eric discusses the critical role of consultants and advisors in the farming industry, highlighting how they provide validation and support for better decision-making. He underscores the significance of incremental improvements in profit and cost reduction, urging farmers to focus on increasing income and profitability through informed and strategic decisions.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of understanding all components of a farm business. Eric explains how analysing income, yield, and cost structures can uncover opportunities for improvement. The conversation covers essential topics such as benchmarking, managing increasing costs, and the need for strategic business management in farming.
Tune in to learn from Eric Nankivell's extensive experience and discover practical advice on balancing costs, making strategic decisions, and tracking key performance metrics to enhance your farming operations.

Episode 48: Data driven farm management with Justin Webb from AgriWebb

Join us as we sit down with Justin Webb to learn about his journey from the world of hedge funds to the fields of agritech. In this episode, Justin shares his fascinating transition from a high-flying career in finance, including stints at Harvard and Oxford, to embracing his family's farming legacy in Australia.
Discover how his data-driven mindset and passion for technology led to the creation of AgriWebb, a pioneering platform that empowers farmers to make informed, impactful decisions.
Learn about the historical parallels of technological advancements in agriculture and the critical role of data in today's farming practices. Whether you're a seasoned farmer, an agritech enthusiast, or simply interested in innovative solutions, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of farming.
Gain a deeper understanding of how data and technology can enhance productivity, sustainability, and profitability in agriculture, and be inspired by Justin Webb’s journey of turning a personal challenge into a global mission to advance the agricultural sector.
Tune in to learn more about the intersection of finance and farming, the power of data-driven decisions, and the future of agriculture as seen through the eyes of a visionary entrepreneur.