Succession isn’t just a plan on paper — it’s a living, breathing conversation about legacy, leadership, and what we’re really passing on. And when it’s done well, it can strengthen not just the business, but the family behind it. 

You’ll hear how their children have stepped up to run operations and organise camp drafts, and how strategic grazing lifted their carrying capacity from 1,500 to over 5,000 — all while staying true to their family-first values. 

Now and then, you get the chance to pause, look back, and really take stock. And when that moment rolls around, it can be quietly powerful. 

That’s exactly what this episode is. A milestone. A moment. A celebration. 

This year marks 10 years of Farm Owners Academy, and I wanted to sit down with two people who’ve been there from the start — FOA founder Greg Johnson and our CEO Sam Johnson — and reflect not just on where we’ve come from, but where we’re going. 

In this one, we unpack the heart behind FOA, the thinking that shaped the Top Producers Program, and the impact it’s had on farming families across Australia and New Zealand. 

But more than that, we talk about what truly sets top producers apart — and why, now more than ever, mindset, business acumen, and strategic focus are the critical tools for leading through uncertainty. 

Because right now, volatility is the new normal. 

Climate, markets, costs — they’re all shifting. And that means farming families need a stronger compass and clearer tools than ever before. 

In this episode, we explore: 

So wherever you’re at — whether you’re in growth, in a rut, or somewhere in between — this episode is an invitation to step up, get clear, and take charge. 

Our last Top Producers 2-Day Workshop for the year is happening June 23rd and 24th in Melbourne (or online if you can’t be there in person). And I can tell you, it’s two days that could completely change the trajectory of your business. 

This is your chance to step out of the day-to-day and rebuild from the top down—with the same framework the top 20% of farmers are using to outperform, year after year. 

We’ll walk you through how to transform your thinking, optimise your business model, and propel your farm forward—with clarity, purpose, and a clear plan in hand. 

But here’s the truth: you’ve got to choose it. 

Because the best businesses don’t happen by chance—they’re built by people who make time to grow, who lean in when it’s hard, and who say yes when most would sit back. 

Get off the tools. Step out of the chaos. And create space to lead with purpose. 

👉 Early bird tickets are available now — reserve your seat here! 

Greg, Sam — thank you for the wisdom, leadership, and heart you’ve poured into this community. 

And to every FOA member and listener — thank you for backing yourselves and walking this road with us. 

Here’s to the next 10. 

Jeremy Hutchings & the Farm Owners Academy Team 

The markets are rattled. The headlines are loud. And for farmers trying to plan ahead, it’s starting to feel a bit like trying to build a fence in shifting sand.

Let’s be honest - running a farm can feel like a never-ending list of things to do. The sun comes up, and we’re off… chasing the day, solving problems, making it all happen. But here’s the question we’re leaning into on this episode: What if the biggest breakthrough for your business isn’t out there in the paddock… but in here, inside you? 

At Farm Owners Academy, we’ve learned time and again that real transformation - the kind that sticks - starts with mindset. When farmers turn the focus inward and start doing the inner work, everything shifts. And this episode of Profitable Farmer is a powerful reflection of just that. 

We’re unpacking the theme: “Work harder on yourself than you do on your business.” It's a simple idea, but it cuts deep. And it’s at the very heart of what made our recent Tune In, Deep Dive event so special. Over 500 farmers joined us to dive into the mindset, wellbeing, and emotional intelligence tools that don’t just improve your business - they change your life. 

I’m joined by two people I respect deeply - Tracy Secombe, our Head of Wellbeing, and David Westbrook (Westy), one of our most loved coaches and a farmer through and through. Together, we get real about: 

If you’re ready to lead with clarity, step into your potential, and show up as your best self - on the farm, at home, and in life - this episode is for you. 

Tracy and Westy, thank you for sharing your wisdom and experiences. To everyone listening - my hope is that something in this conversation stays with you, nudges you forward, and reminds you just how powerful you really are. 

Keep winning everyone! 

As we reset for 2025, many are feeling the weight of a brutal 2024. And to be completely honest — when you're staring down a decile one year, it’s hard to know where to start.  

Where have you learned leadership? 

On the farm? In a day job? Inherited perhaps? 

For most, NONE have learned the vital art and science of leadership. 

It is a learned skill. One we can all commit to and master.  

One we all need to be successful in life and business, and in succeeding in the pursuit of a family farm that can transcend generations… 

It is a privilege to introduce Paul Ainsworth, Managing Partner of Lincoln Institute to you in this episode - one that speaks deeply to the heart of leadership, resilience, and the power of community. 

Over 15 years, and after a decorated career in the Australian Army, Paul has helped shape leaders in the veterinary and agricultural industries. A graduate of the Australian Defence Force Academy and the Royal Military College Duntroon, Paul served as an Infantry Officer with international deployments across five foreign countries, culminating in a role as a military observer in the Middle East.  

His leadership journey continued beyond the Army, first as the inaugural Director of ALDI Foods in Australia and then, as CEO and Board Chairman of Australia’s fastest-growing company in the energy sector.  

Now, as the Founding Principal of the Lincoln Institute, Paul is dedicated to equipping veterinary and agricultural professionals with the leadership, management, and communication skills they need to thrive.  

Leadership is more than just making decisions. It’s about connection. It’s about knowing when to step forward and when to step back. It’s about building a team that isn’t just technically strong but also aligned, empowered, and accountable. 

Here Are Some of The Key Leadership Lessons from This Episode: 

We are delighted that our FOA Platinum Mastermind & Alumni Members have access to the Lincoln Institute Emerging Leaders Programs. For more information about FOA’s programs and our connection with Lincoln, book a Complimentary Coaching Call here. 

Paul and his team at Lincoln Institute have been working alongside farm owners, veterinarians, and business leaders for years—helping them not just lead, but lead well.  

This is a conversation about what really makes a difference in leadership—the moments that test us, the decisions that define us. 

A sincere thanks to Paul for joining us in this conversation. Your knowledge, wisdom and insights are so valuable and transferrable.  

Sincerely,  

Jeremy Hutchings and The Farm Owners Academy Team  

Running a farm comes with its fair share of challenges, and it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day. But some of the biggest opportunities for growth come from stepping outside our own operations, connecting with others, and learning from those facing similar challenges. Stronger businesses, smarter decisions, and a more resilient industry all start with farmers coming together and sharing knowledge. 

This episode is all about the power of grower groups - why they matter, the impact they have, and why getting involved can be a game-changer for your farm and business. 

I'm joined by Pippa Jones, who, alongside her husband, runs a mixed farm near Goondiwindi, QLD. Beyond the farm, Pippa has played a key role in the Macintyre Ag Alliance, helping to drive innovation and support for local farmers. She also works as an extension officer with NSW Local Land Services and represents the Northern NSW Drought and Innovation Hub. On top of that, she’s a 2024 Nuffield Scholar, exploring how carbon farming can be both a profitable opportunity for farmers and better supported on a global scale. 

Together, in this episode, we explore: 

At Farm Owners Academy, we're proud to be partnering with Macintyre Ag Alliance and other grower groups across Australia to help farmers connect, learn, and thrive. 

If you haven't yet, I encourage you to seek out your local grower groups and engage with your regional drought and innovation hubs-they offer invaluable resources and networks that can help you navigate challenges and future-proof your farm business. 

You can access more information about the items discussed in the episode below: 

Pippa, thank you for your time, your insights, and your leadership. I hope you all enjoy this conversation as much as I did. 

Keep winning. 

Jeremy Hutchings & the Farm Owners Academy Team 

If something happened to you tomorrow, would your farm keep running? Would your team know what to do? Would your business continue to operate, or does it all rely on you?

Farming is a beautiful and rewarding way of life, but as we know, it comes with its fair share of risks—some that we prepare for and others that shake us to the core.  

In this episode, we dive into an extraordinary story of resilience, resourcefulness, and reinvention as we sit down with Matt and Hayley Watson, first-generation farmers who built a thriving free-range egg business, faced devastating adversity, and emerged stronger on the other side. 

Matt and Hayley share their incredible journey—from building their egg operation to 9,000 birds, navigating one of the worst droughts in Australian history, and tackling the challenges of growth, to the devastating biosecurity crisis that forced them to start over.  

Through all the setbacks, their determination, values, and ability to ask “unreasonable questions” of good people helped them rebuild their business in under 12 months and turn it into a more efficient, scalable operation; an outstanding result and credit to them both.  

This conversation is packed with hard-earned lessons on managing adversity, knowing your numbers, and building a team and a business that can weather even the toughest storms. It’s also a reminder of the power of community, integrity, and daring to dream big, even when the odds are against you. 

Stick around as Sam Johnson, CEO of Farm Owners Academy, leads this inspiring conversation with Matt, Haley, and their coach, Alison Hamilton. Whether you’re navigating challenges in your own farming business or simply looking for a fresh dose of inspiration, this episode is for you. 

Sincerely,  

Jeremy Hutchings and the Farm Owners Academy Team 

P.S. To check out Watson Family Produce, click here. Or, if you are interested in egg production for Watson Family Produce click here. 

P.P.S. Ready to take your farm business to the next level? Our Complimentary Coaching Calls are designed to give you the clarity, tools, and strategies you need to succeed. Book your spot here and start making real progress today.  

Today, we’re diving into a cracker of a conversation with three of our incredible FOA business coaches—Rick Morris, Marina Gregor, and Jack Owen. They not only run their own successful farming enterprises but also help guide others in our FOA community to achieve remarkable results.