From The Soil Up Podcast

Pasture diversity is gaining traction in New Zealand farming circles  but what does the science actually say? In this episode, Conan sits down with Danny Donaghy and Eru Tait-Jamieson from Massey University to unpack the research behind diverse pasture systems. From species selection and functional traits to grazing management, soil health, and carbon sequestration, this conversation cuts through the hype and gets practical.

https://www.massey.ac.nz/about/colleges-schools-and-institutes/college-of-sciences/our-research/themes-and-research-strengths/whenua-haumanu/#Researchsites

In this episode, Conan interviews Joel Crump from Tow & Fert to explore the benefits of foliar feeding, the technology behind Tow & Fert machines, and how farmers can optimize fertilizer use for better soil health and productivity.

https://www.towandfert.co.nz/

In this episode, Lynn Hoover from Ocean Blue Agronomics shares insights on the role of ocean minerals in sustainable farming, soil health, and livestock productivity. Discover how natural mineral sources can unlock soil biological functions, improve crop yields, and enhance farm profitability.

 

https://www.oceanblueagronomics.com/about-us

In this special episode, Conan shares his panel from the 2026 Underground Festival, joined by two farming families who've put their money where their values are. Kenneth and Rachel Short are organic dairy farmers from Taranaki, and Mark and Laura Koopmans run a sheep and beef operation out of Kaikoura.

From the drivers behind their decisions to the honesty conversations around financials, the challenges, and the opportunities ahead, this is an honest, on-the-ground conversation about what regenerative and organic farming looks like in practice.

Please note: this episode was recorded live at the Underground Festival with audience Q&A, so there may be moments where crowd questions are difficult to hear.

https://www.undergroundfestival.co.nz/

What does it really take to produce one of the world's most sought-after natural health products?

Conan sits down with Liam Gavin from Gavin's Honey to pull back the curtain on the Manuka honey industry. From the realities of beekeeping to quality certification, export markets, and the growing demand for natural health products.

With over 2000 recognised properties, Manuka honey sits at the intersection of sustainable farming and global commerce. But as Liam puts it, "the industry is still finding its feet."

In this episode:

The key challenges facing Manuka honey producers

How UMF and MGO certification shapes market value

Local vs. export market dynamics

What the future holds for this iconic NZ industry

https://www.linkedin.com/in/liam-gavin-1824a3286/

https://www.instagram.com/gavinshoney_/