Tales of a Nuffield Scholar Podcasts

Today as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni we welcome Tony Pexton and James Pick. With nearly 50 years between their scholarships, this episode beautifully contrasts two eras of learning, travel, and transformation in UK agriculture.

Tony shares his 1975 Nuffield journey 50 years on, reflecting on studying sheep and big flock management across New Zealand. He discusses how Nuffield sparked his lifelong involvement in industry leadership, including time as Chair of Nuffield and the Farmers Club. His second Nuffield (one of two to ever do two), funded by the Frank Arden Award, explored sustaining rural incomes—highlighting change, adaptability, and the evolving agricultural landscape.

James takes us through a more modern lens, discovering Nuffield after seeing “NSch” in Twitter bios.His scholarship investigates whether potatoes can be grown without degrading soil, a challenge he explored across North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. James shares the emotional highs and logistical hurdles of solo travel—and how Nuffield accelerated his personal and professional growth.

Neville and Di Stangroom's journey through agriculture, fruit growing and Nuffield has been filled with innovation, travel, and a deep commitment to the industry.

Neville’s Nuffield Scholarship in 1978 focused on mechanising fruit harvesting, particularly for apples and strawberries. He travelled to Australia to explore innovative techniques, learning about the Tertura trellis system and integrated pest management, which transformed his approach to farming. While some ideas didn’t take off, the lessons on sustainability and pest control were invaluable. He also remains deeply involved in blackcurrant production, supplying fruit for Ribena and playing a role in the evolution of modern fruit-growing practices.

Di brings a unique perspective, having supported the farm’s operations while also driving change in mental health awareness in farming. She co-founded YARNA (You Are Not Alone), an initiative that provided counselling for farmers struggling with isolation and depression. Her dedication has helped transform attitudes towards mental health in the sector, proving the impact of Nuffield beyond just farming practices.

Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Liz Bowles and Jim Baird. Jim Baird, a dairy farmer from Lanark , shares his journey from studying entrepreneurship through Nuffield to becoming vice-chair of Nuffield UK. He discusses his focus on regenerative agriculture, rotational grazing, reducing chemical inputs, and his work with First Milk’s sustainability initiatives. His passion for balancing productivity with environmental stewardship is evident in his approach.

Liz Bowles, CEO of Farm Carbon Toolkit, reflects on her experience as a Nuffield Scholar studying collaboration in the red meat sector. She discusses her dedication to regenerative agriculture, the importance of soil health, and the evolution of carbon footprinting in farming. Her work focuses on helping farmers reduce emissions while improving profitability and biodiversity.

The conversation explores key sustainability themes, including the role of dung beetles, the challenges of multi-species swards, and the opportunities in regenerative agriculture. Both guests highlight the importance of adaptability, data-driven decision-making, and supporting farmers through collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Jim and Liz also reflect on their Nuffield journeys, sharing how the scholarship opened doors to global learning and shaped their careers. They emphasise the need for continuous learning, networking, and innovation in agriculture to build resilient and sustainable farming systems.

Today we chat to Simon Beckett, a third-generation farmer from a family with a deep-rooted Nuffield legacy. His father, Alan Beckett, was a Nuffield Scholar in 1957, and Simon continued the tradition in 1987 with a study on motivation in middle management.  Even Simons daughter Holly has done Nuffield, making it three generations of Beckett scholars! Simon shares the incredible journey of their business—from dairy to poultry and then expanding into retail and farm diversification. His experience in strategic planning and leadership offers valuable insights into evolving and adapting in the farming world.

We also explore the challenges of stepping back from leadership, the importance of mentorship, and the lasting impact of Nuffield on his career. Simon reflects on how the Beckett Scholarship has helped support many entrepreneurial scholars, reinforcing the strong network within the Nuffield community. His passion for business, personal development, and supporting the next generation shines through in this episode. A conversation full of wisdom, history, and plenty of laughs along the way!

Today, we chat to Roisin Taylor, a passionate advocate for sustainable food systems and a 2023 Nuffield Scholar Trustee. Roisin’s journey into agriculture is anything but conventional, growing up in rural County Durham, she spent a decade working on farms before diving into academia, where her interests in anthropology and social structures led her back to the land. Her Nuffield Scholarship focuses on the British cut flower industry, exploring its sustainability, the challenges it faces, and how it can reduce reliance on imports. She’s passionate about supporting UK growers and ensuring that flowers are produced in an environmentally responsible way.

Roisin shares candid insights into the highs and lows of her journey, from her early days on a sheep farm to working with UK Youth for Nature and her experiences in advocacy. She also discusses the emotional challenges of land loss and the resilience needed to navigate setbacks in farming. We also speak about inclusivity in agriculture and how initiatives like AgDiversity by Nuffield will play a crucial role in making the industry more accessible and welcoming to people from all backgrounds.

Today, we chat to Emily Norton, a passionate advocate for climate-focused policy and the future of farming. Emily discusses her journey into agriculture, growing up on a mixed family farm and experiencing the challenges of succession and intergenerational farming firsthand. Her early experiences shaped her dedication to building a more sustainable and equitable industry. Her Nuffield Scholarship focused on how farmers can adapt their systems to align with sustainability goals while remaining profitable. Emily’s travels took her across the globe, from Europe to North America, where she explored innovative farming practices and their applications back home.

Emily reflects on her time as Chair of the Oxford Farming Conference and how her work has centred on bridging the gap between policy and practical farming solutions. Her insights highlight the critical role farmers play in tackling climate challenges while managing the realities of modern agriculture.

In this episode of the "Tales of a Nuffield Scholar" series, we chat to Hannah Batty, Hannah Fraser, and Tom Pearson, who share their unique insights and experiences from their Nuffield journeys. Hannah Batty is a vet and Clinical Director, Hannah’s Nuffield study focuses on creating better team management on UK dairy farms to enhance animal welfare and profitability. Hannah Fraser is a medical doctor and organic farmer, Hannah explores how farmers can promote nutrient-dense food production to tackle chronic disease. Tom Pearson is an arable farmer and public health advocate, Tom’s study focuses on how farmers can positively impact community health through nutrition and education.

Together, they discuss their global Nuffield experiences, the Contemporary Scholars Conference, and how being in the same cohort highlights the social and support benefits of the Nuffield journey. If you’re considering a Nuffield, this episode showcases how it can foster incredible connections alongside personal and professional growth.

Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series, we chat to Nic and George Snell, brothers who bring entrepreneurial spirit and innovation to farming. From their shared roots on the family farm to global insights gained through their Nuffield journeys, they’ve cultivated a wealth of knowledge in agriculture. Nic and George take us through their experiences growing up on the family farm, navigating its transformations, and how their father’s entrepreneurial mindset influenced their ventures. With a focus on adding value, they share their journey in establishing the pioneering Certainly Wood brand, which brought kiln-dried firewood to the UK market. Both Nic and George also reflect on their individual Nuffield Scholarship topics. Nic’s research centred on forestry and woodland, while George explored marketing opportunities in agriculture. Their global travels for Nuffield highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation in farming practices, which they’ve implemented back home. Recently, they’ve been involved in sustainable initiatives, including forestry projects and alternative markets, showcasing how their dedication to progression continues to shape their vision for the future of farming.

Today, we delve into the tales of two remarkable Nuffield scholars, Aled Davies and Lorna Davis. Both share their unique perspectives, shaped by years of farming experience and transformative Nuffield journeys. Aled takes us through his background as a farmer's son from rural West Wales, where his passion for marketing and problem-solving took root. His career spans roles in animal health and feed, all while championing sustainable practices and innovative solutions in agriculture.  Lorna introduces us to SuDSPlanter, an innovative solution for water management that integrates sustainable urban drainage systems with green infrastructure. She shares how this system is transforming the way communities approach water retention and management, improving water quality while addressing environmental challenges.

The pair also discuss their involvement in the Greener Future Award, an initiative recognising and celebrating efforts to make agriculture more environmentally sustainable. They highlight the importance of showcasing innovation and inspiring others in the industry to adopt greener practices, driving meaningful change for the future.

Today, we welcome Gary Spence and Lucy MacLennan. Gary, a dedicated farmer and expert with Forage Tec, reflects on his work in agricultural technology, discussing how advancements have revolutionised farming practices. He explains how his Nuffield research has focused on implementing precision technology to improve productivity and sustainability, sharing insights gained from his travels and the global farming community.

Lucy, who works with agroecology and the Organic Research Centre, delves into her passion for promoting sustainable and organic farming practices. She shares how her Nuffield Scholarship allowed her to explore innovative models that inspire environmentally friendly approaches in agriculture. Lucy’s work emphasises the importance of research and education in driving forward sustainable farming systems.

Both Gary and Lucy recount the unexpected challenges they faced when COVID-19 hit during their Contemporary Scholars Conference (CSC) in Australia. They discuss how the sudden global pandemic altered their plans and the resilience they had to show as scholars navigating unprecedented obstacles far from home. Together, Gary and Lucy talk about the collaborative spirit of the Nuffield community and the lifelong connections they’ve built with scholars from around the world. They emphasise the transformative experience of the scholarship, both personally and professionally, and the shared goal of making a meaningful impact on the agricultural landscape.

At the time of this episode’s release, Tom Rawson is stepping into the role of Chair of Nuffield UK—a testament to his dedication and leadership within the agricultural community. Tom shares his journey as a dairy farmer and the valuable insights he has gained through his Nuffield Scholarship. With a focus on global agricultural practices, he highlights how his travels have influenced his approach to farming back home. Tom delves into his commitment to sustainable dairy farming, discussing the innovations he has implemented to improve animal welfare and farm efficiency. His dedication to adopting best practices from around the world has been instrumental in shaping his progressive approach to dairy management. He also shares his experiences in leadership within the Nuffield community, explaining how the scholarship has allowed him to build connections with other agricultural leaders. Tom reflects on the importance of knowledge exchange and the impact it has had on his professional growth and perspective on farming. Finally, Tom talks about the challenges and rewards of balancing the demands of dairy farming with the ongoing pursuit of learning. His story is one of resilience, curiosity, and a passion for making a meaningful impact in agriculture.

We welcome Dudley Smith 1974 NSch and Tom Pearson 2023 NSch to this podcast. Dudley shares his diverse farming journey, from his early years in Australia and America, where he experienced life as a cowboy, to his time working in India and his extensive travels as part of his Nuffield Scholarship. He reflects on the evolution of agriculture over the decades, highlighting the shift from small-scale local farming to larger cooperative systems. He discusses the challenges that British vegetable growers faced and the eventual migration of production to other regions like Lincolnshire. His personal experiences offer insights into the impact of changing markets and climate on farming practices.

Tom Pearson shares his experiences of balancing his career in medicine with his passion for farming. He explains how his Nuffield research has focused on the intersection between health and agriculture, looking at how healthy diets and food systems can play a role in improving public health outcomes. Tom’s story illustrates the unique perspective that professionals outside of traditional agriculture can bring to the sector.

The conversation touches on Dudley’s community efforts, such as his recent project to deliver generators to Ukraine to support civilians affected by the war. His dedication to helping communities and his reflective storytelling reveal the broader impact that Nuffield Scholars can have, both within and outside agriculture.

Today we welcome 2005 Scholar, Matt Naylor. Matt delves into his journey of running a successful flower farming business in South Lincolnshire. Starting with just 120 acres of mixed crops, he describes how he expanded into growing 700 acres of cut flowers, working with major retailers such as Tesco, Marks & Spencer, and the Co-op. Matt discusses the challenges and strategies involved in flower farming, from managing the risks of outdoor production to diversifying income streams with solar energy and other ventures. He also touches on the importance of sustainable practices and the complexities of maintaining profitability in an industry facing rising costs and environmental concerns. Matt reflects on his personal experiences, including his struggle with self-identity during his school years. He shares how these formative years shaped his perspective on life and business. He opens up about the importance of self-awareness and authenticity, especially in a sector where challenges often go beyond just farming. In addition to his farming journey, Matthew talks about the value of mentorship. He explores how mentoring has impacted his life and business, offering insights into how accountability and guidance play a crucial role in personal and professional development. Enjoy!

Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Guy Smith. Guy speaks about his experience farming on the Essex coast, which boasts the driest spot in the British Isles, with less than 20 inches of rain annually. He discusses the challenges of farming under such dry conditions and the unique weather patterns of the region. Guy also reflects on his time as deputy president of the NFU, where he worked with farmers across various landscapes, from rough grazing to arable farming. He describes the complexities of representing such diverse farming systems and how issues like black grass and evolving weather patterns have influenced the sector. Having completed not one but two Nuffield Scholarships, Guy shares how these experiences helped him break into agricultural journalism and brought valuable insights through his travels across Spain, France, and other countries, opening doors and expanding his understanding of international agriculture.

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of Brian Shaw, a 1974 Nuffield Scholar, recorded at his home farm, Dryfeholm. Brian shares his extensive experience in pig farming, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of managing a tenanted farm with the Crown Estate. The conversation also explores Brian’s reflections on the evolution of the global pig industry and the profound impact his Nuffield Scholarship has had on his farming practices and outlook on agricultural innovation. Enjoy!

From New Zealand to the British Museum: Ian Howie’s Timeless Farming Legacy. In today’s episode, we dive deep into the incredible journey of Ian Howie, a distinguished Nuffield Scholar from 1973. You will never believe Ian’s age—you’ll have to listen to find out Ian shares his remarkable experiences traveling to New Zealand and Australia, where he explored innovative approaches to dairy beef production that would shape his entire career. How many farmers do you know whose farming practices have been archived in the British Museum? Ian’s reflections on the evolution of farming, the importance of rotational grazing, and his unique contributions to agricultural policy offer invaluable insights for future generations. It was a pleasure to have 2024 UK and Netherlands Scholars Dan Smith and Heleen Bruintjes with us too! Enjoy!

Our last tales of a Nuffield scholarship episode welcomed an extremely successful accidental businessman! Today we welcome someone who always wanted to have a business. Heather Gorringe worked in the family business before falling in love with the process of taking a business from small to large. With various businesses under her arm, she is most well known for Wiggly Wigglers which is aimed at selling worm kits to assist in household composting as well as bokashi for the same reason. Fascinating chat with a very driven women and proof of where a Nuffield scholarship can take you! Enjoy! 

Today we welcome another Nuffield Scholar with a very interesting story! Whether that’s starting running the family farm at 19, trying every diversification under the sun, money challenges, finding real success and selling the business or ultramarathons, Andrew has done it all! We talk the intricacies and challenges of sales, marketing and building a brand, fire pits and morality! A great discussion with a very clever man!

Today we welcome Roger Mercer, Nuffield Farming Scholar with two sons who are also in the same club! Was very interesting to hear Roger’s mind consider how the business can be environmentally and financially sustainable all the while keeping everyone involved in whatever capacity they desire! We also talk about the challenges of a pre-phone scholarship! Very smart, calculated man and a joy to talk to. Enjoy!

Continuing on our Nuffield Alumni Podcast we welcome Chris Taylor. Wallace was lucky enough to watch Chris’s presentation at the conference in Exeter last year! Chris tells his story about not coming from a farming background before taking on a milking job and being hooked! Studying at Harper Adams, BASIS, a Nuffield Scholarship spanning two continents and more has led Chris to his current role as Chief Agronomist at N2 Applied. Chris also sits on the board of Nuffield and is a true advocate for the organisation! Great chat with terrible WiFi and great craic!

Agroforestry, community farming and chasing the olympics? Today we have our second episode of the Nuffield alumni podcast! Today is our first Scholar on the series! This man has been integral in making this series happen! David Rose, was born into farming and has shaped his agribusiness around conservation where food security is paramount. The farm is home to various businesses, community groups and more! David talks about his Scholarship in 2001, the topic itself and where it has seen him go since. Great chat with a true Nuffielder!

This is the first of the 'Tales of a Nuffield Scholar' podcasts. With support from Howden Rural, we bring you the first episode to introduce both the Nuffield UK Director, Rupert Alers-Hankey and Marketing Manager at Howden Rural, Fraser Searle.