We're going behind the scenes to see and understand modern agriculture, because no matter whether you're in it or not, you probably don't know all the pieces to...
How to avoid the 'Three-Generation-Curse' with Ben Law the Financial Bloke
The three-generation curse. Perhaps you've heard this ominous phrase before. Farming families know the reality all to well that their land and careers are built over generations. So why is it so common to hear stories of how quickly all that hard work can become undone? And is it possible to avoid this curse? In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, we sit down with Ben Law, a former financial advisor who had enough of the fluff and became "The Financial Bloke" and founder of AgriCoach. Ben shares growing up on a New South Wales cattle farm to build a successful financial advice practice and ultimately stepping away to focus on his passion for empowering farming families.Now he helps families navigate the complexities of succession planning, protect generational wealth, and avoid the "three-generation curse." Ben reveals his approach to fostering high-performing families and discusses balancing financial strength with strong family relationships.In this episode, you’ll hear about:How Ben’s early experiences on his family farm shaped his career path.The pivotal moments that inspired him to leave financial advising and start his own business.Insights into the "three pillars" of successful succession: wealth, wisdom, and wellness.The role of education, alignment, and planning in preparing families for succession.About Ben Law: Ben Law is the founder of AgriCoach and the voice behind The Financial Bloke Podcast. With over 20 years of experience as a financial advisor, Ben now focuses on helping farming families build and protect their wealth while fostering strong family dynamics to ensure success across generations.Subscribe and Review: Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more listeners passionate about agriculture and the incredible people behind it!
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The 2024 wrap with James Wagstaff from The Weekly Times
James Wagstaff reflects on his 20-year career with The Weekly Times, one of the most consumed print news publications among ag folks. It can feel like print is in flux thanks to the shift to digital platforms and indie social media content creators. However, with a focus on quality over quantity, James shares the big stories that have shaped the agricultural space, his life as a journalist, and the readers who keep coming back for more.In this episode, Oli sits down with James Wagstaff, the editor of The Weekly Times. They have a chat about James's experience covering big Aussie agriculture stories and discuss highlights from 2024's news scene. There has been some big news this year; Land ownership shake-ups, sustainability pushes, economic uncertainty, supermarket supply chain turmoil, and heartfelt stories of legacy and challenge. Finally, what does a year ahead look like with so many moving parts hitting the newswire?In this episode, you’ll hear about:James Wagstaff looks back on his 20-year career with The Weekly Times.Hindsight on big Australian news stories such as 'Who owns Australia.'How print media is adapting to the digital age.Impacts of sustainability initiatives on agricultural families and operations.How infrastructure, Donald Trump's election, and trade with China may affect the Australian Agricultural landscape.Advice for the next generation interested in agriculture and journalism.
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"Don't Stop," advice from Ultra-Marathon Runner and Meat and Livestock Australia's Managing Director Michael Crowley
Uncertainty of reaching the finish line is always on the mind of an ultra-marathon runner like Michael Crowley. But by pushing through, you can make the unbelievable possible. Such is the story for Australian agriculture and the long future ahead of it.In this episode, Oli sits down with Michael Crowley who recently took up the top job with Meat and Livestock Australia. They dive into Michael's history with AG, the time he ran 100 km for mental health, and his dream of passing on a sense of stewardship to the next generation. He's a big-picture guy. As Managing Director, he is privy to talks around tech in Australian farming, trade relationships, and developing sustainable practices for the future.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Michael Crowley discusses his history working in Europe with Meat and Livestock Australia, becoming the CEO of Herefords Australia, before returning to Meat and Livestock Australia.Michael shares his passion for running and raising funds for the 'How's Your Mate?' charity in a 100 km marathon.Michael discusses the opportunities and challenges facing the future of Australian ag to meet sustainability efforts and the complex trade landscape.He provides valuable insight for those operating in the agriculture sector and those just starting.Picture Credit: Meat and Livestock Australia
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40:38
Resilience through Farming Financing with Richard Brimblecombe
Welcome to part 2 of our mini-series, which we partnered with Legacy Livestock to create.Many unforeseen factors can shake up things on the farm. Drought, disease, or uncertain family farm succession are just a few in the mix. So how can folks and ag take a long-term view to prepare for those moments, or pull themselves out of it through the assistance of financing?In episode 2, Oli sits down with Richard Brimblecombe, Legacy Livestock's CEO, to explore the role of financing solutions in supporting Australian farmers. Richard shares insights into the agricultural finance landscape, the unique challenges Australian farmers boldly face, and how Legacy Livestock empowers resilience and continuity in farming operations.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Richard shares insights from his career and role as CEO of Legacy Livestock.Discussion on navigating issues like drought, disease, and family loss that impact Australian farmers.How financing can serve as a lifeline for farmers in difficult times.The Legacy Livestock’s approach in supporting farmers for their future goals regardless of circumstance.Exploring sustainable strategies and innovations for Australian farming’s future.Get in Touch with Legacy Livestock:To learn more about how Legacy Livestock can support your farming aspirations, visit their website at legacylivestock.com.au or call them directly at 1300 965 683. Their team of experts is ready to assist you in unlocking the full potential of your agricultural business.
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25:45
Building a Legacy through Farm Financing with Richard Brimblecombe
We're back with a three-part series that we have partnered with Legacy Livestock to bring to life.Many folks in agriculture have spoken with us about the challenges and rewards of building their dream life. We can empathize with wanting to build a legacy. In this episode Oli shares that dream. He asks how do you bring that dream into reality.In episode 1 we get to know Richard Brimblecombe, CEO of Legacy Livestock. He shares his journey from growing up on a mixed farming property in Queensland to his career in agricultural finance and ultimately being a co-founder of Legacy Livestock. Richard’s passion for agriculture and his insights into the evolving landscape of farm financing are invaluable, especially for those navigating the challenges of starting or growing a farming operation. We dive into his background, career, and the unique perspective he brings to livestock finance.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Richard’s upbringing and lifelong connection to agriculture.The challenges and opportunities in Australian farming today.Chatting about Oli's hypothetical sheep and wool farm.How Legacy Livestock helps producers maximize the potential of their paddocks.Practical advice for farmers looking to grow their businesses.Get in Touch with Legacy Livestock:To learn more about how Legacy Livestock can support your farming aspirations, visit their website at legacylivestock.com.au or call them directly at 1300 965 683. Their team of experts is ready to assist you in unlocking the full potential of your agricultural business.
We're going behind the scenes to see and understand modern agriculture, because no matter whether you're in it or not, you probably don't know all the pieces to just how incredible, diverse and multi-layered agriculture is. We do this by uncovering the real stories, experiences and voices of modern agriculture.
Australia