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EcoFarm Aotearoa

Ewan Campbell with co-host Stephen Brunton

From paddock to podcast, EcoFarm Aotearoa showcases Ewan Campbell, a respected name in NZ farming, known for turning good science into better practice. With co-host Stephen Brunton, Ewan unpacks his audiobook and the big issues: nitrate and water quality, soil biology, mineral balance, genetics, pasture growth, animal health, and profitability. Real stories, clear takeaways—ready for the ute, cowshed, or tractor. Notes & links: efa.nz

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Monday · 37 min
The Science of Epigenetics: What Happens Today Shapes Tomorrow
What if the environment your animals are raised in influences how their genetics are expressed, and what gets passed on to the next generation?In this episode of An Eco Farmer’s Discovery, Ewan Campbell and Stephen Brunton explore the relationship between epigenetics, genetics and the environment. Starting with the Dutch Hunger Winter and the research into how nutrition and stress during pregnancy can influence the development of future generations, they discuss how the same genetic blueprint can produce different outcomes depending on the signals an organism receives from its environment.The conversation then takes these ideas onto the farm, looking at soil fertility, nutrition, electromagnetic fields (EMF), seed germination and livestock development. Ewan shares his observations from working with farms, including examples involving thistle growth, power infrastructure and EFA Guardian Rocks. They also discuss how they believe artificial electromagnetic influences may affect the signals plants and animals receive, and why they see protecting the farm environment as an important part of improving genetic expression.In this episode:- The Dutch Hunger Winter and its influence on research into epigenetics- How environmental conditions can influence gene expression without changing DNA- The relationship between maternal nutrition, pregnancy and the next generation- Why the farm environment matters when developing healthy livestock- How soil fertility and trace minerals may influence animal development- The role of electromagnetic fields (EMF) in the natural environment- The difference between natural and artificial electromagnetic influences- Ewan's observations of EMF issues on working farms- A case study involving thistle growth, power poles and farm infrastructure- How EFA Guardian Rocks are used within their farming approach- The potential influence of magnetic fields on seed germination and crop growth- Why seed origin and growing conditions matter- How farmers can think about protecting their investment in livestock genetics- Why improving the environment today could influence future generationsOur E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
October 23 · 39 min
Are We Measuring the Right Things in Agriculture?
How much nitrogen does your next crop really need, and where is that nitrogen coming from? In this episode of An Eco Farmer’s Discovery, Ewan Campbell and Stephen Brunton revisit a discussion about nitrogen, crop residues and soil biology after a farmer challenges their previous claims with detailed production figures. Using the farmer’s wheat and oat rotation as a case study, they work through the numbers, explore the potential role of crop residues in building soil organic matter, and explain why they believe farmers need to understand what is happening beneath the surface. The conversation looks at soil testing, carbon levels, nutrient availability and the conditions needed for soil biology to function. They also revisit an example soil test from Taranaki to discuss nutrient imbalances, aluminium, boron and calcium, alongside the importance of measuring changes over time. The episode expands into the relationship between soil organic matter, farm profitability, crop quality and nutrient density, with examples from farming experiences and the practical lessons that can be learned by testing, observing and measuring. In this episode: A farmer’s challenge to EcoFarm’s claims about nitrogen and soil biology Breaking down the nitrogen requirements of a wheat and oat rotation How crop straw could contribute to soil organic matter and nitrogen cycling Why the starting condition of your soil matters Understanding soil carbon, humus and organic matter How soil testing can reveal nutrient imbalances and limiting factors The relationship between aluminium, boron, calcium and other nutrients Why crop residues need the right conditions for biological decomposition What earthworms, fungi and cyanobacteria contribute to soil processes How to test and measure changes in soil over time The potential relationship between soil organic carbon and farm profitability Why crop quality, nutrient density and storage life deserve attention Lessons from a long-term soil improvement example in Taranaki Why farmers should measure results rather than rely on assumptions Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
October 14 · 50 min
More Fertiliser Won't Fix Your Soil
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 clients How soil testing identifies nutrient levels and limiting factors The difference between total nutrients and nutrients available to plants What soil structure and flocculation mean for air, water and biology How weeds like dock, gorse and thistles can provide clues about soil conditions Why the same soil principles apply to lifestyle blocks and commercial farms How soil chemistry and biology work together to cycle nutrients Why applying more fertiliser may not address the underlying problem How nutrient availability can influence pasture growth and animal health When to carry out soil and herbage testing How targeted nutrient applications can help address specific deficiencies Where to start if you want to improve your own soil
October 7 · 26 min
Your Soil Could Be Worth MILLIONS
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 soil Why a soil test should be part of assessing a farm's value The "current account" and "term deposit" analogy for soil fertility How locked-up nutrients can limit farm productivity Why total and available nutrients need to be looked at together The potential financial impact of fixing limiting factors How soil fertility can affect animal health and production Why bankers could benefit from understanding soil productivity Using evidence and soil data to make better farm decisions How improving soil can create more productive land without buying more hectares The real cost of doing nothing with the nutrients already in your soil Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
September 29 · 41 min
What Your Herbage Test Is Really Telling You
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 testing How different pasture species can affect the minerals showing in a herbage test Why some trace minerals are difficult to assess accurately through soil testing alone How herbage testing can provide an indication of soil biology and mineral availability The relationship between nickel, nitrogen and zinc Why silicon and aluminium are important when looking at weeds and soil conditions How soil tests and herbage tests can be used together What an anonymized farm herbage test can reveal about soil fertility Why soil testing should be the starting point when identifying limiting factors How soil biology can contribute to nutrient cycling after cropping What pasture plants and weeds may be telling you about the condition of the soil Why accuracy and observation matter when making soil fertility decisions
September 16 · 49 min
Cultivation and Cropping: The Mistake That Costs Farmers Thousands
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 finished How building soil carbon before planting can support crop growth The “fake boost” that can happen after spraying Why soil biology plays such an important role in decomposition and nutrient cycling How crop yields and cropping area affect the economics of winter feed Why cultivation itself isn't necessarily the enemy The role of fallow periods, timing and soil preparation Why weeds may be responding to underlying soil conditions How cyanobacteria, fungi, bacteria and worms contribute to the soil cycle Why measuring your soil carbon and nutrient inventory matters Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
August 21 · 14 min
More Farming Questions Answered: Nitrogen, Fungi & More
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 system The relationship between nitrogen and soil carbon The hidden costs of synthetic nitrogen The fungal "Control Alt Delete" experiment Cordyceps and different fungal species Fungi, soil biology and cyanobacteria Why independent trials and observation matter Making farming decisions based on reality The importance of questioning conventional practices Innovation and finding unexpected solutions More questions from the EcoFarm community If 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
August 13 · 47 min
Your Farming Questions Answered: Soil, Carbon, Glyphosate & More
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 communityI f 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
August 6 · 35 min
The Nitrate Debate: Here's What People Got Wrong
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 farm If 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
July 29 · 1 hr 23 min
Inside China's Massive Organic Farming Operation
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 China Inside a 200,000-cow dairy operation Why China is prioritizing food quality over quantity Climate-controlled farming and advanced technology Organic dairy and growing global demand Turning desert land into productive agriculture Lessons New Zealand can learn from China's innovation Why long-term thinking is shaping the future of farming If 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/
July 17 · 41 min
News Outlets Throwing Blame To Farmers!
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 research Why correlation isn't the same as causation How healthy soil biology reduces nitrate leaching The role of cyanobacteria in nitrogen cycling Why test and measure beats guesswork Mineral interactions: nickel, selenium, copper & zinc Improving livestock nutrition naturally Why profitability and environmental outcomes can improve together Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
July 1 · 16 min
We Sent Steve To A Coal Mine! Reefton Episode Part 2
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 mine How coal is processed, washed, and prepared for different industries The surprising journey from mine by-products to EcoFarm fertilizers Soluble silica, humates, papa rock, and mineral blending Mine rehabilitation and restoring land after extraction How EcoFarm products are mixed and shipped around New Zealand The people, machinery, and innovation behind one of New Zealand's most unique farming partnerships Purchase 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
June 26 · 46 min
Can Mining Improve Agriculture?
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 other Purchase 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
June 21 · 48 min
The Farming Discovery That Turned Conventional Agriculture Upside Down
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 nature Guest: Robin Claire Host of Cultivated Audio Website: https://cultivatedaudio.com/ Listen to Cultivated Audio: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ydCU8Rh44ZcSXz0tfZgOz?si=ada90fb16e5a4cd0 Purchase 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
June 21 · 44 min
The $3 Billion Fertiliser Plant Nobody Needed
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 management Our FREE E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
June 19 · 53 min
The Most Profitable Farms Are Doing This Differently
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 innovation 60 Minutes Video: https://youtu.be/3GDm3Y9wAuA?si=GccuvHuyAhRruUgg Guardian Rocks Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E8aChTA_HM&t=3s Purchase 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
June 10 · 56 min
Farmers Are Focusing on the Wrong Thing
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
June 5 · 48 min
Who Really Controls New Zealand Farming?
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 making Purchase 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
May 22 · 1 hr 28 min
Is Your Favourite Politician Voting to Destroy New Zealand’s GE Free Future?
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 Zealand Our FREE E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠
April 29 · 1 hr
Regenerative Farming Meets the Food Industry (feat. Rensha Bouwer)
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 profitability Our 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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