Irish Farmers Journal podcasts

In this episode of Young Stock, hosts Daire Cregg and Sarah McIntosh sit down with one of Ireland’s most recognisable and outspoken business figures, Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary. Blending sharp insight with candid conversation, the episode explores the mindset, decisions, and realities behind success across both aviation and agriculture.From the outset, the discussion dives into Michael’s early years, unpacking when his entrepreneurial instincts first took shape. The conversation then shifts to his deep roots in farming, where he explains the thinking behind his move into pedigree breeding and his preference for Angus cattle.Hiring and people management take centre stage as Michael shares why he values employees from farming backgrounds and how that perspective translates into business performance. Looking ahead, the trio tackle big-picture questions around the future of beef farming, including profitability, land consolidation, and whether scaling up is essential for survival in today’s agricultural landscape.The episode also explores the aviation side of his empire, with Sarah probing into rising fuel costs and what they could mean for holidaymakers, even with Ryanair’s fuel hedging strategies in place. Meanwhile, Daire raises the increasingly pressing issue of land prices, asking what levels may be considered unsustainable.On a more personal note, listeners get a glimpse beyond the boardroom and farmyard, as Michael reflects on his bucket list ambitions, daily routine, and how he balances a demanding career across multiple industries. The episode wraps with a look at his interests outside of work, from sport to horse racing and beyond.Insightful, honest, and grounded, this episode offers a rare look into the mindset of a leader operating at the intersection of global business and Irish agriculture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Stephen chats to Adam on TB changes and the beef trade, Darren talks about nitrates derogation applications and scheme updates while Daire discusses dairy markets and North Cork Creameries. Join the Farm Tech Talk communityWe welcome any feedback and questions you have for the Farm Tech Talk team. Please email farmtechtalk@farmersjournal.ie or send a text or voice note to our WhatsApp number 086 836 6465Click here if you would like a weekly email notification when Farm Talk is released https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1LkIraRklQcK5mClBGXTpFgets9e  Farm Alert is now available for beef and sheep farmers as well as dairy farmers. Manage your herd and flock health with ease by signing up at www.farmalert.ie. To get started, watch our quick guide on how to register and set up your account https://youtu.be/zZD-8C7X4LgLearn how to build your calendars to receive automated text reminders https://youtube.com/shorts/uPDisMFEY-k Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s Tillage Podcast, we chatted to Michael Burke and Conor Condron of J. Grennan and Sons at the company’s HQ in Rath, Co Offaly, on the importance of producing high-quality feed using local ingredients.We toured the mill and talk about an investment of €4m to increase capacity and improve efficiency. We will of course talk fieldwork, fertiliser, look at the paper and have the grain trends and weather reports. The Tillage Podcast is supported by Bayer Crop Science. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s show we take a look at the new TB testing rules coming into force and hear about the pressure facing winter finishers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a taster of this weeks Inside Dairy, if you would like to subscribe, do so at the link below. This week on Inside Dairy, the Milk League is back!   We take a closer look at the latest developments in European dairy markets and discuss the current situation with grass on farms as the season gets underway. We also feature our interview with Dr. Eva Gocsik, who was speaking at the Bord Bia Dairy Markets Seminar, sharing her insights on the key challenges facing the dairy sector today. Later in the episode, we turn our attention to fertiliser—what’s the plan for your farm over the coming weeks, and what should you be considering to stay on track this spring? To subscribe to Inside Dairy https://ifj.supportingcast.fm/insidedairyAre you receiving our dairy newsletter? If not, join our Inside Dairy community today – link to sign up to receive the dairy newsletter https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1odLPQ4FsQhm-r0edaOnjsAets9e   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final episode of our new series aimed at secondary school students, experts discuss exam tips and the importance of time managementThe latest instalment of our Growing Minds podcast examines the importance of time management and top tips for students ahead of their exam in June. This episode is in conjunction with the revision supplement published by the Irish Farmers Journal in partnership with IASTA and Agri Aware. In part two of episode four, Roisin Byrne from Agri Aware sits down with Sarah McIntosh to continue their conversation on the importance of exam preparation ahead of the Leaving Certificate ag science exam in June. It is essential for students that they know their timings and practice exam questions as often as they can to ensure they are prepared and confident when sitting their exam. They also discuss tips on time management to help students who are feeling overwhelmed and under pressure. It is a stressful time for students, but having the right resources and knowing what to expect can help them remain calm and focused. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hannah Furlong speaks to Joe Gibbons from Ballinasloe, Co Galway who recently won the IPAV Novice Rostrum Auctioneer Competition. Joe talks about his experience working in Ballinasloe mart, the practice that goes into standing up on the rostrum, what it was like to be crowned winner of the novice auctioneer competition and his future hopes for his career in auctioneering. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Stephen is joined by Gary, Adam, Darren, and Aidan to discuss the recent rise in fuel prices and what it means for contractors. Adam covers the EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement, the beef trade and the bluetongue vaccine scheme. Darren investigates how the trade for light cattle is powering ahead despite pressures on beef price, and Aidan has the latest on the proposed Aurivo and Dale Farm merger, now off the table.We also hear from Stephen Carey of Grassland AGRO on maximising production while reducing nitrogen costs.To register for our Beef Markets Event which takes place on Monday 30 March in Abbeyleix Manor Hotel, please fill in this form: https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1IPlLKS7IQlalWpNjVPXHAgets9ehttps://go.alltech.com/focus-for-100  Join the Farm Tech Talk communityWe welcome any feedback and questions you have for the Farm Tech Talk team. Please email farmtechtalk@farmersjournal.ie or send a text or voice note to our WhatsApp number 086 836 6465Click here if you would like a weekly email notification when Farm Talk is released https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1LkIraRklQcK5mClBGXTpFgets9e  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s Tillage Podcast focuses on prioritising jobs in the fields, sowing, markets, the tillage payment and the whiskey technical file. We have a chat with Alister McRobbie of Corteva on herbicides for winter and spring crops and as always, we have the grain trends and weather reports. The Tillage Podcast is supported by Bayer Crop Science. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Bloodlines, Sweat and Tears, the Irish Horse Breeding podcast from Irish Country Living and The Irish Field, host Helen Sharp explores the enduring influence of Thoroughbred blood on Irish sport horse breeding.Long valued for adding stamina, sharpness and athletic refinement, the Thoroughbred has helped shape the success of the modern Irish Sport Horse. But as breeding trends evolve, is that influence changing—and what does it mean for the future?Helen is joined by an expert panel including Dr Alison Corbally, Dr Andrea Ryan, and Chris Ryan of Scarteen House. Together, they discuss the history, practical considerations, and future role of Thoroughbred blood in Irish Sport Horse breeding.A must-listen for breeders, producers and anyone passionate about the evolution of the Irish sport horse, this episode asks a key question: does the next generation still need that famous Thoroughbred edge? You can join the conversation by leaving comment in the box below the podcast player you are listening with. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Inside the Farmers Journal, host Amy Forde brings you the latest stories shaping Irish agriculture.From rising diesel prices to ongoing developments in CAP reform, Amy breaks down the key headlines from this week’s Irish Farmers Journal. The episode also features updates from the Minister for Agriculture on bluetongue, along with the latest news on TAMS supports.Plus, Amy is joined by Jacqueline Hogge to discuss a powerful and eye-opening exclusive report revealing how some farmers are being forced to sell cattle to repay drug-related debts.A sharp and informative listen covering the issues that matter most to farmers across Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Inside Dairy, we break down the latest movements in dairy markets as global uncertainty intensifies, with turmoil in the Middle East adding fresh volatility and raising questions for the months ahead.We also check in on conditions on the ground, with an update on how farmers are progressing with grazing and what it means for early-season performance.Laois dairy farmer John Keane joins us for this week’s interview, sharing his experience from the farm and his outlook for the season ahead.Later in the episode, we take a practical look at fertiliser—exploring the options currently available to farmers and how best to approach purchasing decisions in a high-cost environment.Plus, we examine the rise of GLP-1 drugs and what their impact could be on dairy consumption and the wider industry.All that and more on this week’s Inside Dairy. To subscribe to Inside Dairy https://ifj.supportingcast.fm/insidedairyAre you receiving our dairy newsletter? If not, join our Inside Dairy community today – link to sign up to receive the dairy newsletter https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1odLPQ4FsQhm-r0edaOnjsAets9e   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fifth episode of the new podcast aimed at secondary school students, experts discuss the revision guide supplement and how to prepare for the exams in June.The latest instalment of our Growing Minds podcast series takes a look at the revision guide supplement published by the Irish Farmers Journal in partnership with IASTA and Agri Aware. In part one of the fourth episode, Roisin Byrne from Agri Aware sits down with Sarah Mcintosh and discusses the different sections of the revision guide supplement and how ag science students can use it to aid their study ahead of the Leaving Certificate exam in June. They also talk about the different learning styles that people have and offer tips for students on getting into the study frame of mind. The touch on the key dates for the CAO ‘Change of Mind’ facility and why students should take some time after their exams are over to think about their next steps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's Young Stock Podcast, Martin Merrick speaks with Darren Hession, who shares his journey into auctioneering, how he developed his own style, and the key techniques for selling different animals while building trust and confidence.Be in with a chance of winning two tickets to the All Together Now music festival by filling out our young farmer survey. Go to IFJ - Young audience survey before midnight on 27 March. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Stephen is joined by Adam, Darren and Daire to discuss the shortage of land and what’s driving long-term leasing. Adam outlines pressure on beef finishers, Darren covers the early lamb trade, and Daire updates on grazing progress. We also hear about TB eradication success in New Zealand, and Stephen chats with Aoibhin Lenehan from Alltech, who shares practical tips for managing the critical period post-calving. https://go.alltech.com/focus-for-100  Join the Farm Tech Talk communityWe welcome any feedback and questions you have for the Farm Tech Talk team. Please email farmtechtalk@farmersjournal.ie or send a text or voice note to our WhatsApp number 086 836 6465Click here if you would like a weekly email notification when Farm Talk is released https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1LkIraRklQcK5mClBGXTpFgets9e Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s podcast we have all the latest news, prioritise jobs when weather allows for fieldwork and look at the grain trend and weather reports. Our guest this week is Alison Bosher, country manager with Life Scientific in Ireland and the UK, on generic plant protection product production. The Tillage Podcast is supported by Bayer Crop Science. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s show, Amy Forde is joined by Pat O'Toole, Declan O'Brien and Jacqueline Hogge as the team discuss rural planning permission guidelines, fertiliser prices and the battle to put beef on Britain’s plates.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s Inside Dairy, we chat to Ciaran Aylward from Ornua about the latest developments in the dairy market and what impact the war in Iran will have on milk prices in Ireland. Aidan and Daire also update listeners about what’s happening in North Cork and Aurivo and breakdown the pro’s and con’s of the bluetongue vaccine.To subscribe to Inside Dairy https://ifj.supportingcast.fm/insidedairyAre you receiving our dairy newsletter? If not, join our Inside Dairy community today – link to sign up to receive the dairy newsletter https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1odLPQ4FsQhm-r0edaOnjsAets9e   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this weeks Young Stock Podcast Gary Abbott spoke with Mayo native Rob Langan, Technical Manager with Claas UK, responsible for material handlers equipment alongside OEM and Xerion tractors. Now, entering his seventh year working with Claas UK, Rob discusses his journey through college, how the opportunity with Claas came about and what his role involves on a day to day basis.Be in with a chance of winning two tickets to the All Together Now music festival by filling out our young farmer survey. Go to www.ifj.ie/alltogethernow before midnight on 27 March. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Stephen chats to Adam on Bluetongue vaccines, to Darren on entitlements in CAP, to Aidan on the Aurivo and Dale Farm merger, while Lorcan Roche Kelly chats about Input prices. Aidan also talks to John Brennan from Grassland AGRO about management on farms.  https://go.alltech.com/focus-for-100  Join the Farm Tech Talk communityWe welcome any feedback and questions you have for the Farm TechTalk team. Please email farmtechtalk@farmersjournal.ie orsend a text or voice note to our WhatsApp number 086 836 6465Click here if you would like a weekly email notification whenFarm Talk is released https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1LkIraRklQcK5mClBGXTpFgets9e Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.