Send Lizzie a message!

Join me, Lizzie McLaughlin, as I share the highlights from my recent visit to BBC Gardeners' World Live! I had the incredible opportunity to chat with a variety of gardening experts and enthusiasts, uncovering innovative techniques and hearing the heartfelt stories behind beautiful garden designs. The show is running until Sunday, June 15th, so make sure to catch it if you can!

In this episode, I caught up with Nick Bailey, who introduced me to the inspiring "Make a Meter Matter" initiative, showing how astonishingly one square meter can feed a family of four with vegetables! I also had the pleasure of speaking with Jane Dunn, the blogger and baker with 1 million followers, about the joys of seasonal baking with fresh ingredients, and Becky Excell, who opened my eyes to the vibrant world of gluten-free recipes. 

You'll hear from gardeners on the ground, including Kate Patrick and Andrea Charles, who shared their passion and practical advice.

Plus, I chat to the Thames Orchid Society around mastering the art of growing orchids and catch Wool Pots to learn about the vital movement towards ditching plastic pots. Whether you're a novice gardener or expert, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring insights into sustainable living and how gardening fosters community connection. 

I'll be posting social media clips and updates throughout this weekend, so keep an eye out, and the full episode will be out next week on the usual Friday! Tune in to cultivate your own creativity and deepen your appreciation for the journey from seed to plate.

What I Discovered in This Episode:

• How to make the most of small gardening spaces with Nick Bailey's "Make a Meter Matter."
• The fun and benefits of seasonal cooking and baking with insights from Jane Dunn.
• Vibrant and delicious gluten-free recipes with Becky Excell.
• Why sustainable gardening practices are essential, featuring Woolpots.
• The power of community gardening and supporting local, with stories from Kate Patrick and Andrea Charles.
• Tips for growing beautiful orchids from the Thames Orchid Society.

Website: www.second-nature.co.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Social media: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac

Send Lizzie a message!

Welcome to Second Nature! I'm Lizzie McLaughlin, and in this episode, I'm taking you on an incredible journey to Open Farm Sunday! Willow and I headed down to Somerset to help Sophie Gregory, organic dairy farmer, and MarshwoodVale Farmers with their fantastic event. It was truly inspiring to see firsthand the amazing efforts farmers are making to educate the public, champion regenerative agriculture, and build stronger communities.

I had the pleasure of chatting with so many passionate people, including Tim Mead from Yeo Valley, and 11-year-old Sebastian from Coppethill Farm, who told me all about moths on the farm. I also spoke with Amy, a Dairy Advisor for the NFU, and many members of the general public, including little Luna, who shared all about her favourite biscuits with milk! You'll hear directly from them about the passion behind farming, the vital role of biodiversity, and how social media is helping to tell the authentic story of agriculture.

From debunking those persistent myths about dairy farming to exploring how we can all help foster a new generation of agricultural enthusiasts, this episode is packed with fascinating insights. Tune in to discover why events like Open Farm Sunday are absolutely crucial for building trust, understanding, and a more sustainable future for our food. A big thanks to Sophie and the team for inviting me to podcast, do a talk on connecting people to their food, and having me and Willow stay the weekend! I truly believe you'll leave this episode with a deeper appreciation for where your food comes from.

What You'll Discover:

• Why Open Farm Sunday is such a fantastic opportunity for public engagement.
• The crucial role of regenerative agriculture in sustainable farming.
• How educating children about farming can inspire future generations.
• The significant impact of dairy farming on our food production.
• Why connecting consumers with farmers helps build trust and understanding.
• How social media is a powerful tool for sharing farming stories.
• The essential role of biodiversity in a healthy ecosystem.

Listen for These Moments:

• "The turnout already has been fantastic."
• "Open Farm Sunday is brilliant."
• "It's a chance to interact with our customers."
• "Cows are killing the planet?"
• "Buy British, learn the story behind your food."

Website: www.second-nature.co.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Social media: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac

Send Lizzie a message!

Join me, Lizzie McLaughlin, as I welcome Pippa Streatfeild to the show! We discuss her fascinating transition from a London PA to managing her family's farm, exploring the power of regenerative agriculture in boosting soil health and welcoming back wildlife. We also touch on how glamping and camping are bringing new life (and families!) to the farm.

One of the most exciting parts of our conversation centers around Open Farm Sunday. As I'm personally looking forward to visiting Sophie Gregory's Home Farm for the event this year, Pippa offers fantastic insights into what visitors can expect – from seeing cows being milked and taking tractor rides, to interactive educational activities. She emphasizes how these free events are a wonderful way to reconnect the public with farming and food production. Tune in for a heartwarming and insightful chat about modern farming, community, and the magic of Open Farm Sunday!

Plus, listen to find out how you can WIN BBC Gardener's World Live Tickets!

You can find out more about Open Farm Sunday here: https://farmsunday.org/

Details for Sophie's Open Farm Sunday:

📍Home Farm, TA20 4PW
🗓️ Sunday 8th June
🕙 10am - 4pm

🐄 Meet the animals
🚜 Climb on a tractor
🥛 Learn where your milk comes from
🍦 Enjoy local treats
🎨 Kids’ activities & more!

🎟️ FREE ENTRY — ALL WELCOME!

Website: www.second-nature.co.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Social media: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac

Send Lizzie a message!

This week, I headed to North Yorkshire to speak with Fergus Corrigan from Northern Lavender. Not only has Fergus built a thriving lavender farm from a non-farming background, but Northern Lavender stands as the UK's largest organic lavender farm! Join me as we delve into his inspiring journey, uncovering the realities of establishing this vast and aromatic haven right here in the north.   

We explore the nitty-gritty of building Northern Lavender from the ground up, discussing the unique hurdles Fergus faced in scaling an organic operation to such a significant size and the essential processes involved in cultivating those stunning purple blooms across his fields. Our conversation blossoms as we delve into the vital importance of organic and regenerative farming methods at Northern Lavender, understanding the rigorous standards he adheres to and the evolving definition of the latter, all through Fergus's extensive experience.

Beyond the cultivation on this impressive scale, we uncover the art and necessity of marketing Northern Lavender's unique agricultural products and the profound significance Fergus has found in bridging the gap between consumers and the countryside. Prepare to be moved by his insights on the often-untold mental health benefits of working the land, something he experiences every day at Northern Lavender.

This episode offers a candid look at the long-term commitment that farming demands, the invaluable wisdom Fergus has gleaned from inevitable stumbles in building such a pioneering organic farm, and the power of weaving a compelling narrative around Northern Lavender's exceptional offerings. Plus, we get a sneak peek at his exciting future plans to diversify and expand Northern Lavender's already impressive horizons. If you've ever been curious about the journey into farming, the magic of lavender, or the dedication it takes to run the UK's largest organic lavender farm, then tune in – you won't want to miss this insightful conversation with the inspiring Fergus Corrigan from Northern Lavender.

www.second-nature.co.uk

Website: www.second-nature.co.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Social media: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac

Send Lizzie a message!

Welcome back to Second Nature! This week, I'm so excited to share a blooming lovely episode focused on the heart of farming and community spirit.

First up, I had the pleasure of chatting with the inspiring Heather Copley, owner of the wonderful Farmer Copleys in Yorkshire. You'll hear all about the captivating journey of their farm, including the beautiful introduction of tulips and the incredible community engagement it has sparked. Heather shared her insights on why supporting local produce and embracing seasonal eating are so important, as well as the vital role of agricultural societies in sharing knowledge and building a strong, collaborative industry. Her genuine passion for farming and its potential to address food sustainability and community needs is truly infectious!

Later in the episode, I sit down with Jack the Farmer. He shares his personal journey into farming, from his childhood experiences right through to his agricultural studies. We explore the fascinating techniques and challenges of growing various crops, with a special focus on his stunning tulips. Jack offers some fantastic advice for anyone dreaming of getting into farming or even just a bit of gardening, emphasising market research, crop rotation, and the remarkable resilience of plants. He even hinted at some exciting future plans!

And I also wanted to share a lovely message we received from our listener, Clare, who told us all about her delightful experience with alpacas – it's a truly funny and heartwarming story that I know you'll enjoy.

(A quick note for our amazing listeners: Thanks to your incredible support, Second Nature has been charting in the Home and Garden charts! Willow and I are so grateful for every listen and review!)

Join me for an episode packed with inspiring farming stories, wonderful community connections, and adorable alpaca anecdotes!

Website: www.second-nature.co.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Social media: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac

Send Lizzie a message!

This week, Willow and I are heading into the depths of Wales to for an insightful discussion with our guest, Anna Bowen, a dedicated dairy farmer and consultant. 

We explore the practicalities of running a modern dairy farm while embracing innovative practices like cow-calf contact. Anna shares her perspective on consumer perceptions, the importance of agricultural education, and exciting initiatives to connect farming with schools. 

We also delve into the personal and professional growth spurred by her Nuffield Scholarship, examining global challenges and the ambitious future aspirations that drive her farming career forward.

www.second-nature.co.uk

Website: www.second-nature.co.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Social media: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac

Send Lizzie a message!

Join me, Lizzie, and my corgi Willow, embark on our first on-location adventure, heading to the beautiful county of Herefordshire to chat with a very special guest: Ally Hunter Blair, a familiar face to many from the TV series Born Mucky and First Time Farmers!

For the first episode, we chat what's in season, hear our first listener question and delve into the heart of modern farming with Ally, exploring the ever-present challenges of weather and the exciting potential of agricultural technology. 

Ally shares his unique perspective as we uncover the concept of farm diversification, particularly through the lens of a charming glamping business that he runs. Discover the secrets behind creating memorable guest experiences on a working farm, the complexities of navigating regulations when branching out, and the financial realities of managing multiple enterprises.

We also delve into the deeper meaning behind diversifying with purpose, sharing innovative ideas and reflecting on the vital role of community and resilience in the farming world. Hear about the joys of connecting with visitors and the enduring optimism that drives those who work the land, all from Ally's inspiring perspective in Herefordshire.

If you've ever been curious about the realities of farming or the creative ways rural businesses are adapting and thriving, this episode is a fantastic starting point as Willow and I begin our travels. 

Website: www.second-nature.co.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Social media: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac

Website: www.second-nature.co.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Social media: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac

Send Lizzie a message!

Celebrating the seasons with farming stories, garden tips & homegrown recipes 🚜🌱🍅
Join award-winning podcaster, Lizzie McLaughlin for a new episode every Friday 🎙️

Instagram: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac

www.second-nature.co.uk

Website: www.second-nature.co.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Social media: @second_natureuk

Host: @lizziemuddyheelsmac