In this episode, host Ben Eagle speaks with Jack Bradley, a first-generation dairy farmer in Iceland. Jack shares his unique journey from the UK to Iceland, detailing his experiences in the military, a pivotal holiday in Kavos that indirectly sparked his interest in farming, and his time working in New Zealand. He discusses the cultural differences between the UK and Iceland, the challenges of herd management, and the importance of community. Jack also explains the Icelandic milk quota system and his aspirations for the future, including establishing a tourism business alongside his farming. Throughout the conversation, Jack emphasizes the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone and the need for transparency in the agricultural industry.

Timecodes:

00:00 Introduction to Jack Bradley's Journey

03:17 Life in Iceland: Landscape and Community

05:52 Childhood Influences and Early Aspirations

10:50 Military Career and Lessons from Failure

14:53 Cultural Observations: UK vs. Iceland

19:34 The Pivotal Holiday in Kavos

23:44 Transitioning into Dairy Farming

24:39 The Importance of Fit in Job Recruitment

26:28 Challenges of Herd Management

28:13 Navigating Education and Career Paths

29:17 A Leap of Faith to Iceland

30:42 Life in Iceland: A New Beginning

33:11 Cultural Adjustments and Language Barriers

37:16 From Farming to Owning a Farm

40:12 Building a Future Together

44:12 The Efficiency of Business in Iceland

45:14 Understanding Iceland's Unique Milk Quota System

48:14 Challenges of Expanding Dairy Operations

50:47 Future Aspirations and Business Ventures

55:28 Cultural Insights and Unique Traditions

59:19 Messages of Encouragement and Change for Farmers

🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @RuralPodMedia for updates and behind-the-scenes content. 

Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency. 

Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found at ruralpodmedia.co.uk. 

About Ben and RuralPod Media 

Ben Eagle is the founder and Head of Podcasts at RuralPod Media, a specialist rural podcast production agency. You can find out more at ruralpodmedia.co.uk or benjamineagle.co.uk 

If you have a business interested in getting involved with podcasting check us out at RuralPod Media. We'd love to help you spread your message. 

Please subscribe to the show and leave us a review wherever you are listening. 

Follow us on social media Instagram @mtf_podcast Twitter @mtf_podcast Watch us on Youtube here

Image Credit: Jack Bradley