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The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast

- 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 Cultivation and Cropping: The Mistake That Costs Farmers Thousands

Cultivation and Cropping: The Mistake That Costs Farmers Thousands

3 hours ago

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 community If 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 Your Farming Questions Answered: Soil, Carbon, Glyphosate & More

Your Farming Questions Answered: Soil, Carbon, Glyphosate & More

Thu Aug 13th, 2026

China is changing the way it farms, and the scale of what they're achieving is staggering. 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. In this episode: - 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 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 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Inside China's Massive Organic Farming Operation

Inside China's Massive Organic Farming Operation

Wed Jul 29th, 2026

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 Can Mining Improve Agriculture? Reefton Episode: Part 1

Can Mining Improve Agriculture? Reefton Episode: Part 1

Fri Jun 26th, 2026

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? The Most Profitable Farms Are Doing This Differently

The Most Profitable Farms Are Doing This Differently

Fri Jun 19th, 2026

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 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 Farmers Are Focusing on the Wrong Thing

Farmers Are Focusing on the Wrong Thing

Wed Jun 10th, 2026

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 Who Really Controls New Zealand Farming?

Who Really Controls New Zealand Farming?

Fri Jun 5th, 2026

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 The Farming Discovery That Turned Conventional Agriculture Upside Down

The Farming Discovery That Turned Conventional Agriculture Upside Down

Sun May 31st, 2026

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 Is Your Favourite Politician Voting to Destroy New Zealand’s GE Free Future?

Is Your Favourite Politician Voting to Destroy New Zealand’s GE Free Future?

Fri May 22nd, 2026

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 The $3 Billion Fertiliser Plant Nobody Needed

The $3 Billion Fertiliser Plant Nobody Needed

Thu May 7th, 2026

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 Regenerative Farming Meets the Food Industry (feat. Rensha Bouwer)

Regenerative Farming Meets the Food Industry (feat. Rensha Bouwer)

Wed Apr 29th, 2026

In this episode, Stephen and Ewan unpack the hidden potential within our soils and challenge the conventional approach to fertility, pH, and input-heavy farming. What begins as a discussion on soil chemistry reveals a deeper issue: farmers are often managing only what’s immediately available, rather than unlocking the vast reserves already present in the soil. Through the EFA lens, the conversation shifts toward soil as a living, self-regulating system. By activating biology, increasing carbon, and removing limiting factors, farmers can convert locked-up minerals into plant-available nutrients, naturally balance soil function, and reduce reliance on expensive synthetic inputs, leading to more profitable and resilient farming systems. We discuss: • Why pH alone doesn’t tell the full story • The gap between available nutrients and total soil potential • How biology unlocks minerals like calcium • The role of carbon and organic matter in soil function • Reducing input costs by working with natural processes 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 🎧 Music Credit: Music: Exciting Trailer by Kevin MacLeod Source: https://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/music.html The Hidden Gold in Your Soil (And How to Unlock It)

The Hidden Gold in Your Soil (And How to Unlock It)

Thu Apr 23rd, 2026

In this episode, Stephen and Ewan unpack the growing tension between water quality, farm profitability, and the long-standing reliance on synthetic inputs. What starts as a conversation about environmental pressure quickly reveals a deeper issue, farm systems that are quietly depleting their own soil capital over time. Through real on-farm numbers and practical examples, Ewan breaks down how decades of nitrogen use have led to a steady loss of organic carbon, reducing the soil’s natural ability to hold nutrients and water. The result? Farmers aren’t just buying fertiliser, they’re replacing what their soil used to provide for free. Looking through the EFA lens, the discussion shifts toward rebuilding soil function through biology, carbon, and mineral balance. By increasing organic matter and restoring natural nutrient cycles, farmers can reduce input costs, improve production, and take back control of their systems, while also addressing environmental concerns like water quality. This episode highlights a powerful opportunity: by changing the system, farmers can move from constantly spending on inputs to actually rebuilding long-term value in their soil. We discuss: • The link between water quality issues and farm profitability • How decades of nitrogen use have depleted soil carbon • The hidden financial loss of declining soil organic matter • Why synthetic fertiliser replaces, rather than builds, fertility • The impact of low dry matter and “watery” feed on production 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 How Farmers Are Losing $21,000/ha Without Realising It

How Farmers Are Losing $21,000/ha Without Realising It

Wed Apr 15th, 2026

In this episode, Stephen and Ewan dive into the growing fuel and fertiliser crisis and what it really means for modern farming. As costs rise and pressure builds, the conversation uncovers a deeper issue: the heavy reliance on nitrogen fertiliser as an energy product, leaving farmers exposed to global oil markets. What seems like a pricing problem quickly reveals itself as a system-wide challenge impacting profitability, soil health, and long-term resilience. Through the EFA lens, Ewan explains how shifting focus to soil biology, carbon, and mineral balance can reduce input dependency and rebuild control at the farm level. From producing nitrogen naturally within the soil to questioning decades of conventional practice, the episode highlights a clear opportunity—those willing to rethink their system can lower costs, improve performance, and future-proof their farms. We discuss: • Why fertiliser prices are tied directly to the fuel crisis • How nitrogen functions as “energy in a bag” • The lack of correlation between fertiliser use and profit • How soil biology can replace synthetic inputs • Why many farmers feel stuck in the current system • The opportunity to reduce costs and regain control 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 Farming and Thriving, Even in an Oil Crisis

Farming and Thriving, Even in an Oil Crisis

Wed Apr 8th, 2026

In this episode, Ewan continues the open day out in the paddock, diving deeper into the hidden influences shaping soil, plant, and animal health. Set against a real-world farm backdrop, this part of the conversation explores some of the more complex and often overlooked factors in farming systems. From soil toxicity and mineral imbalances to the role of electromagnetic forces, Ewan demonstrates how unseen elements can impact everything from pasture growth to animal behaviour. Through hands-on demonstrations and farmer participation, the group is encouraged to question assumptions and observe how their environment is truly functioning. The discussion moves beyond conventional inputs, focusing instead on understanding the “why” behind what’s happening in the soil. Farmers share their own experiences, challenges, and early results as they begin transitioning toward more regenerative approaches, highlighting the importance of curiosity, experimentation, and keeping an open mind. This episode captures the reality of being in the early stages of change, where not everything is fully understood, but the willingness to observe, test, and adapt becomes the most valuable tool on farm. We discuss: • How soil toxicity and past management practices continue to influence current systems • Demonstrations of muscle testing and farmer observations in the field • The potential impact of electromagnetic forces on soil, plants, and animals • Why mineral balance and deficiencies play a critical role in pasture performance • Real farmer experiences transitioning away from conventional practices • The importance of observation, skepticism, and open-minded learning • Early-stage insights into improving soil biology and long-term farm resilience 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 Part 2: Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Autumn Open Day 2026

Part 2: Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Autumn Open Day 2026

Wed Apr 1st, 2026

In this episode, Ewan take us directly onto the farm for a live open day, where theory meets reality and farmers get to see regenerative principles in action. Set in a hands-on, real-world environment, the conversation centres around what it actually looks like to transition from conventional thinking to a system that works with nature. As Ewan walks through the farm, he shares practical insights into soil health, pasture performance, and animal wellbeing. All grounded in observation, testing, and experience. The open day creates space for discussion, questions, and shared learning, highlighting how powerful it can be when farmers step outside the textbook and start trusting what they see on their own land. From pasture diversity and mineral balance to animal behaviour and system resilience, this episode captures the importance of seeing the system as a whole. More than just a farm walk, this is a mindset shift in motion, where curiosity replaces certainty, and real progress comes from understanding how everything connects. We discuss: • What regenerative farming looks like in a real on-farm setting • How soil health translates into pasture and animal performance • The importance of observation and asking better questions • Why farm systems must be understood as a whole • Lessons and insights shared during the open day • How mindset shifts unlock real change on farm 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 Part 1: Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Autumn Open Day 2026

Part 1: Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Autumn Open Day 2026

Fri Mar 27th, 2026

In this episode, we hear directly from a fourth-generation farmer who is transitioning away from conventional, chemical-based agriculture and into a regenerative system, while building a premium food brand alongside it. After years of dealing with rising input costs, fertiliser reliance, and commodity pricing pressure, he began questioning the system. What followed was a shift toward regenerative principles: covering the soil, integrating livestock, eliminating synthetic inputs, and working with natural biological processes rather than against them. But this journey goes beyond farming practices. By producing eggs, yoghurt, and value-added products, and selling directly through a growing retail network, he’s proving that regenerative agriculture isn’t just about improving soil health… it’s also about creating a more profitable and resilient business model. 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 What Most Farmers Get Wrong About Regenerative Agriculture

What Most Farmers Get Wrong About Regenerative Agriculture

Wed Mar 25th, 2026

In this episode, Stephen and Ewan are joined by a visiting farmer from Wales, offering a rare and powerful comparison between farming systems on opposite sides of the world. What starts as a simple farm visit quickly becomes something much bigger, as shared challenges, rising costs, and declining soil health reveal just how universal the pressures on modern farming have become. Through open conversation, the episode highlights how different climates, systems, and markets still lead to many of the same problems, from weed pressure and input reliance to animal health and profitability. But it also shows something more important: the opportunity for change. As the Welsh farmer explores the EFA approach firsthand, it sparks a shift in thinking, one that could completely reshape the future of his farm. Ewan brings valuable insight from the EFA perspective, breaking down how soil biology, mineral balance, and system-wide thinking can reduce costs, improve animal performance, and rebuild resilience. From milk quality and nutrient cycling to weeds as indicators of imbalance, the discussion offers practical lessons that extend far beyond one farm, showing how these principles can be applied anywhere in the world. Along the way, the conversation challenges conventional approaches to fertiliser use, chemical inputs, and pasture management, revealing how many common farming struggles are symptoms of deeper issues in the soil. We discuss: • What happens when farmers from opposite sides of the world compare systems • Why many farming challenges are universal, regardless of location • How the EFA approach can reduce costs and improve resilience • The link between soil health, animal performance, and product quality • Why weeds can signal deeper imbalances in the soil • The hidden impact of fertilisers and chemicals on long-term farm health • How shifting mindset can completely transform a farming system 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 A Farmer Flew From Wales to Visit…What He Learned Could Transform His Farm

A Farmer Flew From Wales to Visit…What He Learned Could Transform His Farm

Wed Mar 18th, 2026

In this episode, Stephen and Ewan explore one of the most powerful forces shaping modern farming: mindset. While regenerative agriculture is often framed around practices like rotational grazing or reducing inputs, the real shift begins with something deeper, the willingness to question long-held beliefs about how farming “should” work. The conversation unpacks how healthy soils drive resilient farms, explaining why livestock, microbes, minerals, and plant diversity must function as a connected system. From nutrient cycling and parasite resistance to drought resilience and carbon storage, the episode shows how regenerative outcomes emerge when soil biology is supported rather than forced. Along the way, they challenge common assumptions about weeds, fertilisers, cropping systems, and animal health, revealing how many of agriculture’s biggest problems are actually symptoms of deeper imbalances in soil chemistry and biology. We discuss: • Why livestock are essential for nutrient cycling in regenerative systems • The role of soil biology, fungi, and microbes in building humus • How mineral balance influences plant health and parasite resistance • Why weeds can be signals of missing nutrients in the soil • The difference between organic farming and regenerative outcome 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 Paradigm Busting: The Truth About Regenerative Farming, Part 2

Paradigm Busting: The Truth About Regenerative Farming, Part 2

Wed Mar 11th, 2026

In this episode, Stephen and Ewan move beyond “math busting” and into something even deeper: paradigm busting. What if the biggest barrier to regenerative farming isn’t nitrogen rates or phosphate targets, but the mental models farmers have inherited for generations? From no-till myths to spray-first thinking, they unpack how industry narratives shape decisions long before a paddock is ever walked. The conversation challenges assumptions around cultivation, cover crops, soil disturbance, and diversity, revealing how some widely accepted “regenerative” practices may still be missing the biological foundation entirely. At the heart of the episode is a simple but confronting truth: systems regenerate when biology regenerates. And biology doesn’t respond to labels like conventional, organic, or regenerative, it responds to mineral balance, carbon pathways, electrical charge, and living roots. We discuss: • Why regenerative farming is a system, not a label • The myth that tillage destroys soil (and what actually does) • Why spraying before cover cropping may undermine the whole goal • How soil carbon really builds (and why sugar alone isn’t enough) • The cobalt–B12 link and what a farm cat can teach us about deficiencies This episode reframes regenerative agriculture not as a checklist of practices, but as a shift in understanding. When farmers stop forcing outputs and start feeding biology, soil depth increases, species rotate naturally, pests fade, and profit per hectare strengthens. 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 Paradigm Busting: The Truth About Regenerative Farming, Part 1

Paradigm Busting: The Truth About Regenerative Farming, Part 1

Wed Mar 4th, 2026

In this episode, Stephen and Ewan challenge some of farming’s most accepted assumptions and ask a simple question: what if the math isn’t mathing? From nitrogen targets to phosphate “maintenance” rates, they unpack how industry norms became unquestioned truths and why many of them don’t hold up under first-principles thinking. The conversation walks through real on-farm numbers, showing how excess nitrogen creates animal stress and runoff issues, and how phosphate applications often far exceed what actually leaves the farm. Rather than blaming cows or chasing production per hectare, this episode reframes the focus toward soil function, biological processes, and one metric that truly matters: profit per hectare. We discuss: • Why 4–5.5% nitrogen in pasture may be fundamentally flawed • How excess nitrate stresses cows and drives runoff into waterways • The phosphate “maintenance” myth, and why 60kg may really be 6kg • How industry paradigms prioritise inputs over farmer profitability • Why profit per hectare, not production per hectare, is the real benchmark Using practical farm examples, the episode demonstrates how testing, measurement, and simple calculations can dismantle long-held assumptions. When farmers understand the source of nitrogen and phosphorus flows they can reduce pressure, improve resilience, and regain control from systems that profit off complexity and confusion. Homework Links! https://ruralleaders.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Daniel-Judd_K53_Final-Report.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://ruralleaders.co.nz/balancing-profit-and-environment-insights-from-new-zealands-leading-dairy-farms/ 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 Where Does the Other 54kg of Phosphate Go?

Where Does the Other 54kg of Phosphate Go?

Wed Feb 25th, 2026

Ross and Lance didn’t expect to find a lack of soil life across their Reporoa dairy farm - but digging holes and finding no worms sparked a journey that reshaped how they farm. In this episode, Stephen and Ewan sit down with the pair to explore their transition away from conventional inputs and into biological system thinking. What began as curiosity has evolved into a complete mindset shift - from chasing nitrogen and spraying weeds to rebuilding soil depth, improving animal health, and regaining confidence in the farm system. The conversation follows their two-and-a-half-year journey, including the tough first 12 months, the drop in pasture production, and the turning point when animal health rebounded and costs began to fall. From reducing nitrogen from 150 units to just 5, eliminating Roundup and routine drenching, and watching worm castings return, this episode explores what really happens when you move from feeding plants to feeding soil biology. In this episode we discuss: • Dropping nitrogen from 150 units to 5 - and what happened next • The first-year “shake” and why most transitions feel worse before they improve • Animal health changes, milk urea pressure, and reducing nitrate stress • Even grazing patterns, calmer cows, and fewer flies • Cutting Roundup, urea, summer crops, and imported feed • Herbage testing and understanding excess nitrogen in pasture • Rebuilding red clover density and growing deeper topsoil • Lifestyle shifts, lower health inputs, and regaining control of the farm • Why solving problems through nutrition changes long-term outcomes Using real on-farm examples, the discussion shows how shifting from a consumable input model to a soil-first biological system doesn’t just change pasture - it changes decision-making, confidence, and lifestyle. Rather than chasing symptoms with more product, the focus becomes removing limiting factors, stabilising biology, and building a system that strengthens year after year. Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – www.efa.nz 📘 Our FREE E-Book: https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ 🎧 Listen to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=a8813910174d4136 No Worms… Then This Happened

No Worms… Then This Happened

Tue Feb 24th, 2026

In this episode, Stephen and Ewan unpack what happens after soil health starts improving and why many farms hit a wall precisely when things should be working better. As regenerative systems begin to function, old habits, missing steps, and unseen limiting factors can quietly undo progress if the full process isn’t followed. The conversation walks through EcoFarm Aotearoa’s start-to-finish methodology, explaining why accuracy, system thinking, and education matter more than quick fixes. From GPS-based soil testing and biological sequencing to EMF interference and boundary effects, this episode reframes farming as a new operating system, one that must be learned, not assumed. We discuss: • Why soil success can create new problems if the process isn’t understood • The “new car” analogy, and why modern farming requires new operating rules • How EMF interference can quietly shut systems down • Why GPS accuracy and repeatability are non-negotiable • Soil testing, herbage testing, and sequencing improvements correctly • Boundary effects, power amplification, and protecting productive land • Moving from consumables to long-term investment thinking Using real farm examples, Ewan explains why powering up biology without addressing frequency, logistics, and process can amplify problems rather than solve them. Rather than chasing symptoms, the discussion focuses on removing guesswork, protecting gains, and building resilient systems that continue to improve year on year. Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – ⁠⁠www.efa.nz⁠⁠ Our FREE E-Book: https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=c2fde76b54c44e62⁠ The Missing Step in Regenerative Farming

The Missing Step in Regenerative Farming

Wed Feb 11th, 2026

Title: The EFA Comments Section Exploded - Ewan Answers everything The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast In this Q&A episode, Stephen and Ewan respond to listener questions covering soil minerals, silicon availability, nitrogen use, and electrical processes in farming systems. Grounded in observation and on-farm results, the conversation challenges conventional thinking and focuses on what consistently delivers healthier soils, resilient pasture, and better financial outcomes. From cyanobacteria and mineral activation to fertiliser accountability and system feedback, this episode connects cause and effect across soil, plants, animals, and policy. Rather than reacting to symptoms, the discussion highlights the importance of accuracy, honesty, and addressing limiting factors within the system. We discuss: • Why observation and real-world results matter more than theory • Silicon sources, activation, and the role of biology • Nitrogen traceability, carbon loss, and diminishing returns • How weeds and soil softness reveal underlying imbalance • Reading land correctly to improve function and profitability REFERENCE LINKS The Incredible Survival Ability of Cyanobacteria https://www.youtube.com/shorts/kbCiRFkWv1g Why Cyanobacteria Are the Secret to Healthy Soil https://www.youtube.com/shorts/0j4DKar_UXU Chapter 15: Shiny Stuff | An EcoFarmers Discovery Audiobook Companion Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZBRl-yqAGs&lc=Ugy07RoaXoo46mA_umB4AaABAg EMF Protection for Farms: The Power of Guardian Rocks https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E8aChTA_HM&lc=UgzcsgZqxK0VEw3MMmZ4AaABAg Chapter 10: Science | An EcoFarmers Discovery Audiobook Companion Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwiPTcY-XeQ&lc=UgyPFdhoW9Gt6YLGvBB4AaABAg Minerals For The Genetic Code https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIyYgAeemE0&lc=Ugx4DjRbk45z67LNJB94AaABAg Why This One Change Made the Farm “Explode” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWg78wLu1hc&lc=Ugw9Oq_CEI_lSbOPA9Z4AaABAg Chapter 9 Electrifying | An EcoFarmers Discovery Audiobook Companion Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31aVtKoLx9M&lc=UgzccKrnTKZncIZgPyx4AaABAg Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Late Spring Open Day https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbTJ4qLKyrc&lc=UgzGdnoZMBBnsNR19Ml4AaABAg Soil Works Like an Ocean! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jzi0x4Jvf2w&lc=Ugxnjo7uYq-hjwZIc9J4AaABAg Chapter 14: The Beach | An EcoFarmers Discovery Audiobook Companion Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lguVMIkDiYU&lc=UgwXpzcHbitjkLS9yHd4AaABAg Better Results by Feeding the Soil, Not Just the Animal https://www.youtube.com/shorts/aZPtAWUlQrg Cyanobacteria: The Hidden Engine Driving Your Soil https://youtu.be/YLtSPsCslhg The Fluoride Your Body Actually Needs https://youtube.com/shorts/11tZPhhNd3k?si=ooXCxk-gR-RZzuPB Learning Soil Biology Through Patterns, Testing & Experience https://youtu.be/_JaCQmyFy5c How Electricity Communicates https://www.youtube.com/shorts/BTk-sdbmkiY Ancient Knowledge Behind the 12 Mineral Salts https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdiXr72HX-I&lc=UgxCGNPw9j3Q450Lr5N4AaABAg Winter on the Farm - The Real Start to the Season. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2j6lZTHDX2w&lc=UgyJk1zlIUYUV-yrKl94AaABAg WEEDS PART 2: What They’re Really Telling You About Your Soil https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgfAQlMTLE8&lc=UgzhgLM_ADhCm-Rapux4AaABAg Nitrate Poisoning: Farmers Blamed, but What’s the REAL Cause? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChmTsaGJMwA&lc=UgxCCoCm0WQihJCsCDx4AaABAg` The 1% Soil Change That Supercharges Your Farm https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsJIdM9noOY&lc=Ugyk_OSZb866HTxnd_t4AaABAg The Secret to Flavourful Beef https://youtube.com/shorts/PSTsXFrOCiA?si=0R5qf-AFP9qHMnqD We Make the Secret Formula for Super-Productive Soils (It’s NOT Just One Thing!) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uoC80TIhB8&lc=UgyocfGaTxizUNeYXcN4AaABAg What Farmers Lost When Community Disappeared https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fx2oPqX04Fw&lc=Ugx9Lge8fBX7YFK3R-R4AaABAg What Is An Atom, And Why Does It Matter: The Science Beneath It All https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAhp90LeMTo&lc=UgyPcSU5P-PlhrzRFt54AaABAg Why Animals Prefer Roadside Plants Over Their Own Paddock https://youtube.com/shorts/PIBZ18zl_1c?si=_8yxEkfFX5JEeKcu Nature’s Genius: How Silicon Plants Heal the Land https://www.youtube.com/shorts/DaOlL42Ipeg Chapter 12: The Meat Producer | An EcoFarmers Discovery Audiobook Companion Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OMuQMEI_SM&lc=UgxkfWKtz7rDWTQlb9F4AaABAg Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Soil, Water & Herbage Testing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8obE5ztj4M0&lc=Ugwxj2AGEZSex_8kpfR4AaABAg Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – ⁠⁠www.efa.nz⁠⁠ Our FREE E-Book: ⁠https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/⁠ Listen to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=c2fde76b54c44e62⁠ The EFA Comments Section Exploded - Ewan Answers everything

The EFA Comments Section Exploded - Ewan Answers everything

Wed Feb 4th, 2026

Tissue Salts: Mineral Intelligence & Cell Function The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast Modern farming often treats symptoms instead of causes. In this episode, Stephen and Ewan dig into the mineral foundations that sit beneath soil health, plant function, animal performance, and ultimately human health. Starting at the single cell, they explore how functional minerals, biology, and electrical processes work together to create resilient systems that actually pay off financially for farmers. The conversation moves from ancient science and tissue salts to modern soil testing, showing how cyanobacteria, microbes, and mineral organisation underpin productive land. Rather than adding more inputs, this episode focuses on creating the conditions that allow minerals to move, organise, and function correctly through the entire food chain. From soil conductivity and mineral lock-up, to animal symptoms, plant signalling, and the role of seawater chemistry, this episode connects the dots between soil, water, herbage, animals, and people. We discuss: • Why healthy soil must be biologically active and electrically conductive • The difference between raw minerals and functional mineral forms • How cyanobacteria organise minerals at the cellular level • Why fertiliser does not equal mineral intelligence • How mineral imbalances express as plant stress and animal health issues • The role of silica, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements • How testing soil, water, and herbage reveals limiting factors in the system This episode is about understanding cause and effect, restoring mineral balance, and learning to work with natural systems rather than constantly reacting to problems. It is a deeper look at how reading the land properly leads to healthier farms and more sustainable outcomes. Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – ⁠⁠www.efa.nz⁠⁠ Our FREE E-Book: ⁠https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/⁠ Listen To An EcoFarmers Discovery: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=c2fde76b54c44e62⁠ Subscribe for weekly episodes exploring soil biology, mineral systems, and regenerative farming in New Zealand. Tissue Salts: Mineral Intelligence & Cell Function

Tissue Salts: Mineral Intelligence & Cell Function

Wed Dec 31st, 2025

Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Soil, Water & Herbage Testing The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast Testing is often discussed in agriculture, but rarely done in a way that truly guides decision-making. In this episode, Stephen and Ewan walk through the practical process of soil, water, and herbage testing, showing how accurate sampling, consistent GPS points, and year-on-year comparisons reveal what is really happening on a farm. From collecting soil cores and tracking carbon through the soil profile, to interpreting herbage and water results alongside animal performance, this episode shows why testing works best when it is used to understand the whole system, not just individual numbers. We discuss: • How to collect repeatable soil samples and why depth matters • What soil carbon, bulk density, and mineral balance reveal over time • How boron, calcium, silicon, copper, and zinc influence soil and pasture function • What herbage and water testing can tell us about animal health and nutrient flow This episode is about learning to read your own farm, identifying limiting factors, and making informed decisions based on observation, data, and experience over time. Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa –⁠ ⁠⁠www.efa.nz⁠⁠⁠ Our FREE E-Book: ⁠https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/⁠ Listen To An EcoFarmers Discovery: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=c2fde76b54c44e62⁠ Subscribe for weekly episodes exploring soil biology, testing, and regenerative farming in New Zealand. Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Soil, Water & Herbage Testing

Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Soil, Water & Herbage Testing

Wed Dec 24th, 2025

Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Late Spring Open Day The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast (Ep. 11) Many farmers are feeling the pressure of rising fertiliser costs, tightening margins, and systems that no longer seem to deliver what they promise. In this Late Spring Open Day, Stephen and Ewan are joined by farmers, orchardists, and lifestyle block owners who are actively questioning the status quo and exploring what happens when you stop following the rulebook and start listening to the land. Across paddocks, fences, and soil pits, the conversation moves from conventional inputs to biology, minerals, energy, and observation. This episode captures real questions, lived experiences, and practical insights from people transitioning away from chemical dependency and toward systems that build soil, support animals, and improve resilience over time. We discuss: • Why many farmers are rethinking fertiliser, sprays, and conventional advice • How soil biology, minerals, and energy influence pasture, weeds, and stock health • The role of silicon, calcium, copper, and carbon in building functional soils • Why feeding the soil changes animal performance, meat quality, and resilience • How observation, testing, and curiosity can replace costly guesswork This episode isn’t about perfection or overnight change. It’s about learning, questioning, and building systems that work with nature rather than against it, one paddock, one decision, and one season at a time. Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – ⁠⁠www.efa.nz⁠⁠ Our FREE E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmers Discovery: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=4caf7169d6eb4d97⁠⁠ Subscribe for weekly episodes exploring soil biology and regenerative farming solutions transforming the way we farm in New Zealand. Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Late Spring Open Day

Inside EcoFarm Aotearoa: Late Spring Open Day

Wed Dec 17th, 2025

Can soil organisms really act like alchemists - transforming one element into another? In this episode, we dive into the fascinating and controversial work of French researcher Louis Kervran and his theory of Biological Transmutation. From unexplained shifts in calcium levels to the mysterious role of microbes and roots, we explore what this means for soil health, farming practices, and the future of regenerative agriculture. 👉 Could your soil actually be creating minerals out of thin air? Let’s find out. 🌱 What you’ll learn in this episode: What biological transmutation is and why it matters for farmers How Kervran’s equations connect with real-world soil health observations The debate between mainstream science and regenerative practice Practical farmer takeaways you can use right now 🎧 Good news—we’re now available on all leading podcast platforms! Take us with you while you’re out on the farm, in the tractor, or working with stock. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast players. 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 💬 Got soil stories or unexplained shifts in your tests? Share your experience in the comments—we’d love to hear from you. Ecofarm Aotearoa is online at www.efa.nz Is Your Soil Creating Minerals Out Of Thin Air? | Biological Transmutation Explained

Is Your Soil Creating Minerals Out Of Thin Air? | Biological Transmutation Explained

Wed Oct 8th, 2025

Cyanobacteria: The Hidden Engine Driving Your Soil  The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast Most farmers know about clover, fungi, and fertiliser… but very few understand the microscopic lifeform that actually built the planet and is still driving soil fertility today. In this episode, Stephen and Ewan uncover the extraordinary role of cyanobacteria, the organisms that oxygenated Earth, created the first soils, and remain the biggest untapped force in New Zealand farming. Building on last week’s conversation, we explore why farmers who understand cyanobacteria gain deeper topsoil, stronger nutrient cycling, explosive winter growth, and long-term fertility without expensive inputs. From tissue salts to nitrogen fixation, worm castings to carbon gains, this episode connects the smallest biology to the biggest on-farm results. We discuss: • Why cyanobacteria are the true “regenerating motor” of the soil • How they build carbon, release nitrogen, phosphorus & sulphur, and deepen topsoil • The mineral imbalance (silicon vs aluminium) that determines pasture vs weeds • Why chemical sprays collapse soil biology and stop carbon from recovering • How worms, tardigrades & microbes digest cyanobacteria into long-lasting humus Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – ⁠www.efa.nz⁠ Our FREE E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmers Discovery: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=4caf7169d6eb4d97⁠ Subscribe for weekly episodes exploring soil biology and regenerative farming solutions transforming the way we farm in New Zealand. Cyanobacteria: The Hidden Engine Driving Your Soil

Cyanobacteria: The Hidden Engine Driving Your Soil

Wed Dec 10th, 2025

The Carbon Trap: Why Pasture Renewal Is Costing You More Than You Think The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast (Ep. 9) Most farmers know carbon is important, but few realise just how fast it can vanish or what’s really driving the losses. In this episode, Stephen and Ewan break down a Grasslands Conference presentation by soil scientist Louis Schipper, and compare his findings with what’s actually happening on real farms. From pasture renewal to maize cropping, chemical sprays to root systems, this episode takes you far beyond the theory. As Ewan explains, the numbers don’t lie, but the interpretation often does. Behind every carbon crash is a deeper biological story, and ignoring it costs farmers thousands in fertility, grazing, and long-term soil health. Together, Stephen and Ewan unpack the hard science, challenge long-held assumptions, and reveal why cyanobacteria are the missing link in New Zealand’s carbon cycle. Once you understand how soil biology really works, everything changes: carbon stabilises, nutrients rise, organic matter builds, and paddocks recover faster than anyone expected. We discuss: • Why pasture renewal causes huge carbon losses — and why recovery often never happens • How chemical sprays wipe out cyanobacteria and crash soil fertility • Why maize looks great the first year but drains carbon for years afterwards • The surprising role cyanobacteria play in nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur availability • Practical steps Ewan uses to lift organic carbon by 1–2% a year without expensive inputs With clarity, humour, and decades of hands-on fieldwork, Stephen and Ewan translate complex soil science into practical solutions any farmer can use. This episode connects research, real soil tests, and on-farm experience into a roadmap for restoring soil carbon the natural way. Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – ⁠⁠www.efa.nz⁠⁠ Subscribe for weekly conversations exploring soil health, biology, and regenerative farming solutions that are transforming the way we farm in New Zealand. The Carbon Trap: Why Pasture Renewal Is Costing You More Than You Think

The Carbon Trap: Why Pasture Renewal Is Costing You More Than You Think

Wed Dec 3rd, 2025

Minerals For The Genetic Code The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast (Ep. 4) Minerals don’t just build soil, they build life. In this episode, we explore how the arrangement of minerals forms the foundation of DNA, shaping the health of our soil, animals, and ourselves. From Walter Russell’s revolutionary “10 Octaves” concept to the surprising harmony between elements and biology, this conversation reveals the deep connection between soil chemistry, energy, and life itself. We discuss: - How minerals create the structure and rhythm of DNA - Why too much of a “good thing” can throw everything off balance - The real link between soil minerals and human or animal health - How understanding harmony in nature outperforms chemical “sledgehammer” fixes - Why a healthy environment is the key to genetic strength and farm resilience With science, storytelling, and a touch of humour, this episode uncovers the elegant design of nature’s mineral code and how farmers can work with it rather than against it. Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan CampbellPowered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa - ⁠www.efa.nz⁠ 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 Subscribe for weekly conversations that explore soil health, biology, and regenerative farming solutions. Minerals For The Genetic Code

Minerals For The Genetic Code

Wed Oct 29th, 2025

Soil Health: The Real Cure for Facial Eczema The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast (Ep. 6) When a facial eczema outbreak tore through Ewan Campbell’s dairy herd in the late 1980s, it became a make-or-break moment on the farm. Cows were peeling, milk production was crashing, and the conventional advice—more zinc, more maize, more fungicides—wasn’t working. Then one old farmer offered the simplest, most game-changing advice of all: “Just put some lime on.” In this episode, Ewan and Stephen unpack how a crisis in animal health revealed a deeper truth about soil. What started as a desperate search for a cure led to a breakthrough understanding: that facial eczema isn’t just a pasture disease—it’s a soil problem rooted in acidity, imbalance, and over-reliance on chemicals. We discuss: • The shocking reality of facial eczema outbreaks and why prevention starts underground • How one “lime experiment” dropped spore counts from 300,000 to under 20,000 in days • The hidden role of soil pH, nitrates, and fungal balance in livestock disease • Why quick fixes like zinc and fungicides only mask the real issue • The true cost of ignoring soil biology — in money, animal welfare, and mental strain • Why farmers need to think critically, ask questions, and reclaim independence from “expert” advice With humour, honesty, and decades of hands-on experience, Ewan and Stephen explore how solving facial eczema starts with healthy soils, balanced biology, and a shift in thinking. 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 Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – ⁠www.efa.nz⁠ Subscribe for weekly conversations exploring soil health, biology, and regenerative farming solutions that are transforming the way we farm in New Zealand. Soil Health: The Real Cure for Facial Eczema

Soil Health: The Real Cure for Facial Eczema

Tue Nov 11th, 2025

What Really Saved My Cows The EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast (Ep. 5) When 25-year-old Ewan Campbell faced a devastating facial eczema outbreak on his dairy farm, it nearly cost him everything. Cows were dying, money was vanishing, and the standard advice wasn’t working, until one old farmer’s suggestion changed everything: “Just put some lime on.” In this episode, Ewan and Stephen revisit the story that shaped a lifetime of discovery. What began as a crisis became a turning point, revealing how soil health, not quick fixes, holds the true key to animal wellbeing and farm success. We discuss: • The shocking impact of facial eczema and how it nearly broke the farm • The moment lime proved to be the unexpected cure • Why soil balance and complete proteins matter more than chemicals • How high nitrates and poor soil structure fuel disease • Why prevention, not reaction, is the real solution With honesty, humour, and hard-earned lessons, this episode unpacks how one farmer’s challenge became a breakthrough in understanding the deep connection between soil health, livestock vitality, and farming resilience. 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 Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – ⁠www.efa.nz⁠ Subscribe for weekly conversations exploring soil health, biology, and regenerative farming solutions. MUSIC CREDITS "Mesmerize" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ "Almost Bliss" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ "Angel Share" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ What Really Saved My Cows

What Really Saved My Cows

Wed Nov 5th, 2025

What Is An Atom, And Why Does It Matter: The Science Beneath It All (Ep. 3) Episode 3: Everything from the soil underfoot to the food on your plate starts with atoms. But how do these invisible building blocks actually shape the health of our land, animals, and ourselves? In this episode, we explore how the tiniest particles in the universe form the foundation of farming, life, and balance. From the role of subatomic energy and magnetism to the biology of soil microbes and cyanobacteria, this conversation connects the dots between physics, nature, and everyday food production. We unpack: - What atoms and subatomic particles really are - How minerals in the soil create harmony or chaos in plants and animals - Why “more” isn’t always better when it comes to fertiliser - The surprising connection between soil biology, DNA, and farm health - How understanding atoms can make farming simpler, more natural, and more profitable. It’s part science, part philosophy, and a reminder that every great farm and every healthy ecosystem begins with the smallest things done right. 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 Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell, Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa - ⁠www.efa.nz ⁠ Subscribe for weekly conversations that explore soil health, biology, and regenerative farming solutions. What Is An Atom, And Why Does It Matter: The Science Beneath It All

What Is An Atom, And Why Does It Matter: The Science Beneath It All

Wed Oct 22nd, 2025

Nitrate Poisoning: Farmers Blamed, but What’s the REAL Cause? | The EcoFarm Podcast (Ep. 2) Is nitrate really the villain behind blue baby syndrome, sick livestock, and rising cancer rates, or have we been pointing fingers in the wrong direction? In this episode, Ewan Campbell and Stephen Brunton dive into New Zealand’s nitrate crisis and ask the hard questions no one else will. From Environment Canterbury’s recent “nitrate emergency” to the ongoing debate between professors and farmers, we unpack the real science behind nitrate poisoning, synthetic nitrogen use, and how it is impacting our water, soil, animals, and human health. You’ll discover: - The difference between nitrate and ammonia in healthy soil systems. - Why livestock suffer from oxygen deprivation and what that means for methane production. - How synthetic nitrogen and irrigation create toxic imbalances in our food chain. - What “blue baby syndrome” reveals about our water quality - Real on-farm results showing how regenerative practices can fix the nitrate problem quickly. - This episode isn’t about blame. It’s about truth, responsibility, and practical solutions that start in the soil. If you care about clean water, healthy animals, and food you can trust, this conversation will change the way you see farming. Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – www.efa.nz Subscribe for weekly conversations that explore soil health, biology, and regenerative farming solutions. #EcoFarmPodcast #NitratePoisoning #RegenerativeFarming #SoilHealth #BlueBabySyndrome #WaterQuality #SustainableFarming #FarmersVsScience #NitrogenPollution #NZFarming #EcoFarmAotearoa #HealthySoilsHealthyPeople Nitrate Poisoning: Farmers Blamed, but What’s the REAL Cause?

Nitrate Poisoning: Farmers Blamed, but What’s the REAL Cause?

Wed Oct 15th, 2025

Let’s work together to create the greatest soil on earth

Discover how working with nature can unlock the potential of your farm. By focusing on improving soil health and using sustainable practices, you can enhance crop yields, boost animal health, and create a resilient, thriving farm. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your land’s needs and your vision for success.