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In this episode of Wilson & Ashley, we unpack two big, and sometimes controversial, topics shaping the future of food and farming: Cambridge University’s move towards a 100% plant-based menu and the fast-growing interest in regenerative agriculture across the UK.

We begin with Cambridge University’s 2023 vote supporting fully plant-based catering across its services — a decision driven by sustainability arguments and student-led climate activism. But has the plan actually become reality? And what would large-scale plant-based menus mean for British livestock farmers, nutrition, food culture and student choice? We look at the latest updates, and why food can become politicised. 

Then we turn to regenerative farming: the buzzword everyone’s using, but which is also drawing criticism for its potential to be polarising. We break down some of the principles of regenerative agriculture and explain why regen systems are being championed particularly in the supply chain by companies including Waitrose, Arla, McCain, Nestlé and more. We also explore the realities for farmers: yield dips during transition, changing skillsets, expectations, and the debate around regen premiums.

This episode really digs into the future of how food is grown, sold and served.

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.

Put your thoughts into the mix

In this episode of the Wilson and Ashley Podcast, we explore two major stories shaping farming and rural life. First, it's the rise of female ranchers in the US, sparked by a recent US Guardian article. We're lucky enough to hear in detail from a real life cowgirl, Faith from Little Jennie Ranch.

 With women now making up more than 36% of agricultural producers in America—compared to just 16% of principal farmers in England—we discuss why this shift is happening, how ranching culture is changing, and what life is really like for these working women. From the influence of Yellowstone and country music to the realities of mental health, community, and the stereotypes still facing women in agriculture, we unpack the gap between the romantic image of ranching and the hard graft behind it.

We then turn to a story which has been bubbling in UK headlines for a year: inheritance tax. Many listeners will have seen the viral Countryfile clip of farmer Tom Rees talking about the emotional impact of the proposed IHT changes. We break down what the reforms actually mean—from the new £1 million cap on full agricultural and business property relief to why so many farms, being asset rich and cash poor, will struggle to pay. With government claiming small family farms will be protected and farming bodies warning that thousands could be exposed every year, we look at the reality behind the headlines. We also discuss the human cost, the threat to family farms and food security, and what listeners can do to support the industry and stay informed.

A powerful episode covering women in agriculture, ranching culture, inheritance tax, and the future of family farms.

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If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation.

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@wilsonandashley

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.

Put your thoughts into the mix

First up, we’re heading to Australia to ask: do they do it better when it comes to farm employment and training? From government-backed gap year schemes like AgCareerStart to hands-on training farms for short-term workers, we explore how the Aussies attract and upskill new people into agriculture — and whether the UK could learn a thing or two.  But is the cost really worth it and we can't help but touch on the weather in Aus versus the UK!

Then we turn to your social media feeds. How many of the people you follow buy engagement and followers or pay for promotions. What's the real value of viral videos and is it ever worth faking it online, or does authenticity always win in the end?

This episode was inspired by content from Gabby and Charlie Travels  and The Social Farmhouse

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If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation.

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@wilsonandashley

@rebeccawilsonfarming

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.

Put your thoughts into the mix

Is there any hope for farmers when it comes to political decision-making? We're fresh back from the Conservative Party Conference, invited by Victoria Atkins, Conservative MP and Shadow Environment Secretary, where it really did feel like farming took centre stage.

In this episode, we talk more about Victoria's declaration of the "food and farming emergency” that we're facing and what this really means for farmers, family businesses, and consumers. From scrapping the Family Farm Tax to putting food production back at the heart of policy, are we seeing genuine support for rural communities, or just political posturing?

Then, we turn to The Guardian’s recent piece on changes to Skilled Worker Visas threatening the future of UK farm labour. With many farms unable to recruit locally, could tightening visa rules cripple production — or is it time to rethink training, pay, and working conditions?

Featuring insights from Amy (@thedairydaughter), and your listener questions on how Westminster misunderstands farming, this episode brings politics and real farming life together in typical Wilson & Ashley style.

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If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation.

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@wilsonandashley

@rebeccawilsonfarming

@charlotteashleyfarm

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.

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Schooling. It’s something we’ve both talked about a lot beyond the podcast—mainly because our own experiences couldn’t have been more different. In this episode, we tackle the big question of: to school or not to school?

Prompted by a viral Stacey Dooley reel and plenty of conversations in our own new Podcast Community on Facebook, we explore the rise of home schooling in the UK, the realities of state vs. private education, and how farming children fit into the picture.

From resilience and life skills, to whether schools prepare kids for the real world—or whether that’s down to parents—we share our thoughts, your comments, and some surprising stats. We also get into whether rural kids are at a disadvantage, and why having farming families in school can shape more than just the rural community.

So whether you’re a parent weighing up the options, a farmer who’s been there, or just curious about how education fits into life on and off the farm, this episode’s for you.

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@wilsonandashley

@rebeccawilsonfarming

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.

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In this episode, we're talking about the Love Island star, Farmer Will, and his new business venture.  It promises a behind-the-scenes look at British farming, exclusive workshops, and early access to new products. We explore whether this approach bridges the gap between farmers and consumers or oversimplifies the realities of farming life. We reflect on privilege and accessibility, asking: who really gets to have an opinion on how food is grown and sold? We also look at how Farmer Will compares to other initiatives, including Riverford, and discuss the complexities of transparency, sourcing, and pricing in modern British food boxes.

In the second section, we tackle cyberbullying in farming communities. What does it actually look like online, and why do anonymous platforms bring out harsher behaviour? We explore the online disinhibition effect, the role of group admins, and the challenges of balancing freedom of expression with accountability in the digital worlds. Plus, we share real messages and experiences from farmers navigating these tricky online dynamics.

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If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation.

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@wilsonandashley

@rebeccawilsonfarming

@charlotteashleyfarm

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.

Put your thoughts into the mix

This week, we're talking about the first ever and compeltely unique Borderline Challenge, being undertaken by Cumbrian brother-and-sister duo Hugh and Alex Addision. It's all in aid of the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution and with a £10,000 fundraising target already smashed, their incredible journey not only pushes physical limits but also shines a spotlight on the growing mental health crisis in farming communities.

https://www.justgiving.com/page/the-borderline-challenge

RABI - https://rabi.org.uk/ or call 0800 188 4444 24 hours a day

We also tackle the wildfire raging across Langdale Moor in the North York Moors — 2,000 acres destroyed, critical habitats lost, and questions over why these fires are becoming more frequent. From controlled burning to the role of farmers on the frontlines, and from politics to public support, we ask: what does this mean for our countryside and for the people who live and work in it?

Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/

If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation.

Subscribe now and let’s get into it!

@wilsonandashley

@rebeccawilsonfarming

@charlotteashleyfarm

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.

Put your thoughts into the mix

This week on the podcast, we’re tackling two big talking points in farming — one heated debate, and one devastating disease.

First up: children on farms. After Farmers Weekly ran a piece comparing farm kids to Victorian chimney sweeps, the backlash was fierce. 

We're asking are the clickbait headlines distracting from farming’s real health and safety issues? Do farm kids grow up safer and more risk-aware, or should children be kept away from farm work altogether? And is comparing supervised help to slave labour just a step too far?

Then, in part two: bovine TB hits Clarkson’s Farm. It’s an old story for farmers, but the Clarkson name has thrust TB into the mainstream. We break down what TB actually is, why farms go into ‘lockdown’, and the devastating financial and emotional toll it takes — with average costs topping £20,000 per farm and some losing hundreds of thousands.

We look at the testing system (and its failings), the need for better science, and the ongoing battle over badger culling. With more than 13,000 cattle slaughtered in 2024 — the highest on record — TB remains farming’s most painful, costly and controversial challenge.

Two topics, plenty of opinions, and the usual Wilson & Ashley honesty.

Thank you to our contributors on this week's episode:

Abi Coombes

Andrew Meredith

Charles Goadby

Steve Evans

Gareth Wyn Jones

Maria Warne

Sophie Bell

Hannah Jackson

https://www.fwi.co.uk/business/farm-safety-stars-free-e-learning-course-helps-protect-children-on-farms?fw_source=home_business

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@wilsonandashley

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.

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This week, we’re de-briefing you on a couple of hectic weeks with a fair bit of time adventuring around the country! We're moving from the heart of Wales to the #Farm24, the UK’s biggest digital celebration of British farming.

We kick things off at the Royal Welsh Show, and trust us when we say it's seriously Welsh! There's definitely two sides to the show... From the iconic sight of Welsh cobs in the main ring to nights at Penmenau, plus Charlotte gives us the real insight on that pronunication! Amongst the proud tradition and full on party we chat about why we were actually there as part of a panel exploring the future of farming.

In typical fashion, the conversation takes a few side tracks and unexpected turns before we stop at The Game Fair... Schöffel, G&Ts and spaniels galore!

 We unpack the purpose of events like this, the surprising range of people they attract, and the big role field sports play in shaping rural life and landscapes. 

Then, it’s all eyes on #Farm24 — the UK’s biggest digital event celebrating British farming, in partnership with Farmers Guardian and Morrisons. You'll hear from Emily at Farmers Guardian before we hand the mic to a few of this year’s brilliant ambassadors:

• Amy Wilkinson shares a farming myth that drives her mad
• Frank from Leegate Farm talks about the deeper meaning beyond the hashtags
• Nigel Owens imagines farming as a sport (and reveals what would totally wipe him out)
• Coco Jalloh shares the daily rituals that get her through a busy farming day

We’d love you to get involved too — join in on Thursday 7th August by sharing your farming story using #Farm24. Tag us @wilsonandashley so we can cheer you on and spread your posts far and wide.

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If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation.

Subscribe now and let’s get into it!

@wilsonandashley

@rebeccawilsonfarming

@charlotteashleyfarm

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.

Put your thoughts into the mix

This week, we're talking about the real cost of food – and the true reality of many of the products that are on supermarket shelves. Inspired by a video from B FRANK Health, we unpack the rise of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), how they’ve warped our perception of value, and why real, nutritious food can feel “too expensive” – despite the fact it shouldn’t be.

Government policy, food affordability, and the staggering profits of retailers compared to plummeting farm incomes form part of the conversation – as we ask: are we valuing food (and farmers) properly?

In part two, we react to Will Evans’ tongue-in-cheek take on farming influencers. Are we all ego-driven disruptors, Only Fans shepherdesses, or sponsored content machines? Or is there room for something more authentic, honest, and impactful in the world of farming content creation?

From UPFs to perceptions, pricing to policy – it’s another episode of real talk from Wilson and Ashley... all with a few meanders off topic too!

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If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation.

Subscribe now and let’s get into it!

@wilsonandashley

@rebeccawilsonfarming

@charlotteashleyfarm

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Whilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.