Humans of Agriculture

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.

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

We're sitting down with Jo Palmer, co-founder of The Connection Table. After returning to her rural roots in The Rock, New South Wales, following a stint in Singapore, Jo reflects on her journey and her latest endeavour with co-founder Julia Spicer. The Connection Table is a professional network aiming to elevate rural Australians into decision-making roles across government, industry, and community.

Jo shares her insights on the barriers rural Australians face in securing leadership positions and the innovative solutions The Connection Table is offering. From professional development opportunities to fostering networks and advocating for greater rural representation, this initiative is set to transform how rural voices are heard at leadership tables.

Episode Highlights:

• The Connection Table's Purpose: A digital platform designed to centralise and connect rural talent with leadership and decision-making opportunities.
• The Rural Leadership Gap: Despite significant investment in rural leadership development, the transition to actual leadership roles remains limited. The Connection Table aims to bridge this gap.
• Jo’s Reflection on Starting Again: Lessons learned from her first startup, Pointer Remote, and how launching The Connection Table has been a more deliberate and collaborative process.
• Breaking Down Silos: The need for a broader representation of rural Australia beyond agriculture, including mining, environment, and migrant communities.
• Support for Emerging Leaders: Offering training, governance skills, and network-building resources to empower individuals at all stages of their leadership journey.
• Unique Features of The Connection Table: Monthly Lunch with Friends networking sessions, board and panel opportunity feeds, and a focus on underrepresented voices in regional Australia.