Biological Farming Roundtable

In Episode 46 of the Biological Farming RoundTable Podcast, Nakala and Shelley travel to Pingrup, in the southeast of the WA wheatbelt. They are joined by David Steele and his wife, Deb, who are multigenerational farmers running a cropping and sheep enterprise. David and Deb recall when the soil had that earthy smell and have their sights set upon bringing the aroma back to the farm.When David relied mainly on synthetic fertilisers, he watched his soil health steadily decline. He shares the steps he’s taken, such as addressing all of his plants’ nutrient needs, including trace elements, with a mineral fertiliser, and more recently adding biology to the mix. He has watched his topsoil steadily increase and he still has some tools up his sleeve to add to the system. The post Episode 46: Rebuilding Soil From the Ground Up appeared first on NutriSoil.

In Episode 45 of the Biological Farming RoundTable Podcast, Nakala continues her conversation with Gundi Rhoades in part two of The Microbe Solution. This episode dives deeper into Gundi’s exploration of the powerful connection between soil microbes and human health. We examine how synthetic compounds have disrupted microbial balance and how farmers play a critical role in restoring it.Gundi shares compelling insights on why rebuilding soil biology is not just achievable but essential for the future of farming and wellbeing. A must-listen for anyone passionate about regenerative agriculture and the ripple effects of healthy soil. The post Episode 45: The Microbe Solution, Part Two – The Hidden Heroes appeared first on NutriSoil.

In this eye-opening episode of the Biological Farming RoundTable podcast, host Nakala Maddock sits down with regenerative vet Dr Gundi Rhoades to explore the profound ripple effects of historical decisions and technological advancements on soil biology and by extension, human and animal health.Gundi shares her remarkable journey of discovery, revealing how disruptions in soil microbes have led to nutrient imbalances linked to disease, autoimmune disorders, anxiety, and depression. In Part 1 of this two-part series, she dives into the crucial roles bacteria and fungi play in producing minerals, amino acids, and vitamins essential to wellbeing. It is a powerful conversation that reframes wellness through a biological lens, starting from the ground up. The post Episode 44: The Microbe Solution, Part One – Joining the Dots appeared first on NutriSoil.

In this special episode of the Biological Farming RoundTable, we’re turning the tables. Host Nakala Maddock swaps seats to become the guest, with NutriSoil’s communication coordinator, Shelley Scoullar, stepping in behind the mic. What unfolds is a candid and spirited conversation between two passionate advocates for healthy farming systems. From the marvels of microbes and nutrient-dense food to the often-controversial topic of irrigation, Nakala and Shelley don’t shy away from the big issues. They explore what drives NutriSoil’s mission and how that mission is rooted in more than just soil – it’s about farmers being the solution. The post Episode 43: If I knew then what I know now appeared first on NutriSoil.

In this compelling continuation, Nakala and John Kempf delve into the concept of Active Immunity in plants—a state made possible by biologically active soils rich in diverse microorganisms. Discover how microbial compounds, such as lipids and phytochemicals play a pivotal role in fostering complete resilience against diseases and pests. Tune in to uncover how soil health drives plant vitality! The post Episode 42: Achieving disease and pest resilience – Part Two: vigorous biology appeared first on NutriSoil.

In this episode, Nakala is joined by John Kempf, a pioneering voice in regenerative agriculture and a trusted mentor to farmers worldwide. Together, they delve into the transformative concept of the Plant Health Pyramid, an innovative framework developed through extensive research by John and the team at Advancing Eco Agriculture.The Plant Health Pyramid reveals the secrets to cultivating resilient, thriving plants that are naturally immune to diseases and pests. In this episode—the first in a two-part series—Nakala and John explore the foundation of Passive Immunity, uncovering how balancing plant chemistry can unlock nature’s own defense mechanisms. Whether you’re a farmer, gardener, or simply curious about the power of plants, this conversation will inspire and educate. The post Episode 41: Achieving disease and insect resilience – Part One: balancing chemistry appeared first on NutriSoil.

In this episode, we sit down with Dan Kittredge, farmer, founder of the Bionutrient Association, and educator behind the world’s first Certificate-Level Masterclass in Nutrient-Dense Food. Dan is at the forefront of groundbreaking research, measuring and defining food quality—and linking it directly to how it’s grown. This conversation dives deep into the medicinal potential of food, exploring how growing food in the the right growing conditions can not only enhance human health but also reverse chronic disease, reward farmers producing high-quality food, and contribute to climate restoration. Dan is currently on a world tour, bringing his Certificate-Level Masterclass in Nutrient-Dense Food to Australia this April. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from a global leader in regenerative agriculture. Check out the dates, locations, and ticket links below! Cowaramup, Western Australia, April 3 –4, 2025. https://www.dankittredge.com/events/western-australia Glazier’s Bay, Tasmania, April 12– 13th 2025. https://www.dankittredge.com/events/tasmania Drysdale, Victoria, April 16th – 17th, 2025. https://www.dankittredge.com/events/victoria Boorowa, New South Wales, April 23th – 24th https://www.dankittredge.com/events/boorowa Kandanga, Queensland, April 28th to 29th. Here is the website to the Bionutrient Association where you can explore their research: https://www.bionutrient.org/ Here is the link to Dan’s website where you can find out more about the Certificate level Masterclass in Nutrient Dense Food. https://www.dankittredge.com The post Episode 40: Nutrient-Dense Food with Dan Kittredge appeared first on NutriSoil.

Nakala visits Don Jarvis, a dedicated dairy farmer from Towong near Corryong in the picturesque Snowy Valley. Don reveals his simple methods for transforming acidic, compacted soils into balanced, self-regulating ecosystems through the power of biology. Alongside his wife Denise and son Jamie, Don operates an organically certified dairy farm, working in perfect harmony with nature. Join us as Don shares his journey and the steps he has taken to achieve a fulfilling and sustainable farming practice. The post Episode 39: Simple secrets to self-regulating soils appeared first on NutriSoil.

In this episode we give you an inside view of what WORM FEST 2024 is about. How it came to be, why and what to expect! Joel Williams talks about his love of amino acids and biostimulants with nutrient delivery and how at WORM FEST 2024 he is going to be diving into the science of what powerful tools lie beneath these often-mysterious names. WORM FEST 2024 is likened to Ground Swell a UK, Festival that provides a forum for farmers, growers, or anyone interested in food production and the environment to learn about the theory and practical applications of regenerative farming systems. Can WORM FEST 2024 be this BIG?! Take a listen to find out. The post Episode 38 – A Special Episode giving you a sneak peak into WORM FEST 2024 with Joel Williams and David Hardwick. appeared first on NutriSoil.

In this episode of our podcast, Nakala and David offer a rare glimpse behind the scenes at NutriSoil headquarters. We’re introducing you to a key figure in our team, the ‘Worm Whisperer’ himself, Darren Maddock. While Darren might be a bit of a hidden gem in our operations, his contributions are vital to the NutriSoil business. Darren delves into his reasons for taking on the family worm business, sharing his passionate views on farming and his aversion to chemical usage in agriculture. His commitment to natural processes is not just a philosophy; it’s a practice that has led to significant successes, particularly in using NutriSoil to improve animal health. Listeners will gain valuable insights about running a commercial worm farm and Darren will give his top three tips for maintaining a thriving, healthy worm farm at home. But there’s more to Darren than worms and farming. He’s also a talented musician and artist. As a special treat, at the end of the podcast, we give you a sneak peek of one of his own compositions, a song titled ‘Testing Times’. We hope you enjoy! The post Episode 37 The Melody of Earth: Unveiling NutriSoil’s Worm Whisperer Darren Maddock and his Harmonic Approach to Worm Farming appeared first on NutriSoil.

In this inspiring episode, we delve into the story of Callum Lawson, a visionary who transformed a struggling 3000-acre grazing property in North Central Victoria into a flourishing ecosystem. Facing the challenge of an overstocked land, Callum embarked on a mission to revive the farm. This journey wasn’t just about restoring the land; it was a commitment to producing healthy food, fostering environmental sustainability, and ensuring profitability. Discover the strategic steps Callum took, the valuable courses he attended, and the essential networks he engaged with. His story is a testament to the power of regenerative agriculture and its positive impact on our food system, the environment, and human health. The post Episode 36 Reviving the Range: Callum Lawson’s Journey from Overgrazing to Oasis appeared first on NutriSoil.

In Episode 35 host Nakala Maddock interviews three amazing guests about the importance of building networks and community ties for farmers and their families. During this podcast our special guests discuss tools for developing resilience to weather the next tough time when it comes along, and what you can do to help someone who might be struggling. A big thanks to Luke Harrington, Brad and Katie Collins for allowing themselves to be vulnerable for this special episode of the Biological Farming Roundtable podcast. The post Episode 35: Building resilience through community. appeared first on NutriSoil.

In Episode 34 of the Biological Farming Roundtable, host Nakala Maddock and agroecologist David Hardwick from Soil Land Food speak with cropping farmer Brendan Pattison, from Marrer in NSW. Brendan discloses how he has managed transitional change in his farming system to reduce dependence on synthetics by activating and feeding soil biology while remaining profitable. Monitoring and observations are key tools for tweaking biostimulant and foliar applications as crop needs change. The post Episode 34: The power of biostimulants and learning from observation appeared first on NutriSoil.

This month’s podcast takes the Biological Farming Roundtable podcast to Ingham QLD, for the Regenerative Cane Farmers Forum. Host Nakala Maddock is joined by agroecologist David Hardwick from Soil Land Food, they speak with cane farmer Ray Zamora from Tully about addressing soil compaction and declining soil health in the sugar cane industry. Ray shares his soil health learning journey, and how invention, biology and networking earnt him the right to farm with less Nitrogen, without compromising profits. The post Episode 33: Necessity is the Mother of Invention, driving change in cane farming appeared first on NutriSoil.

In episode 32 of the Biological Farming Roundtable host Nakala Maddock is joined by Robin Tait an independent consultant in Tasmania, as they chat with Aiden and Sarah Coombes. Aiden manages Westmore a 3400 ha grazing property owned by Greenhams and is involved in implementing the Never Ever Beef Program, while Sarah manages properties owned by the Coombes. Located in the northwest of Tasmania the climate has a unique set of challenges, which the couple meets head-on and are thriving. The podcast explores how expanding knowledge, thinking outside the square and pushing boundaries, along with a team approach are aiding their journey to producing nutrient-dense food while staying profitable. The post Episode 32: Enhancing nature for profitable grazing and nutrient density in corporate ag. appeared first on NutriSoil.

In episode 31 of the Biological Farming Roundtable Podcast, host Nakala Maddock is joined by Jane Slattery co-founder of natural intelligence farming. Nakala and Jane speak with cattle grazier Dale Retschlag from Biloela in Queensland. Dale is the president of Central Queensland Landscape Alliance, a farmer led regenerative restoration group and explains his journey to being at peace with a non-negotiable synthetic free farming system. The podcast covers all things involved in the regenerative movement, including; steps to transition and how Dale felt, the light bulb moment (when he knew he was not going back), worm extracts, community, family, health and an open intuitive mind. The post Episode 31: Creating non-negotiable synthetic free grazing systems with Dale Retschlag appeared first on NutriSoil.

Jacob Wolki is an entrepreneur from Albury Wodonga. Treating animals with respect, family and medicinal food drive his quest to build a community where farmers and consumers are connected by shared values. He raises animals, processes them, sells online, has a self-serve butchery, and runs farm tours. He is changing the system of how farmers share their produce, which is what we discuss in this episode. The post Episode 30: Creating Innovative Food Systems with Jacob Wolki. appeared first on NutriSoil.

Robin Tait from Tasmania has a background in agronomy, after ten years in pyrethrum production. A Nuffield Scholarship in 2018 took her all over the world looking at different farming systems. This led to a career change for Robin who is now an independent consultant, specialising in regenerative agriculture and working with multispecies cover crops. Although in its early stages, Robin has recently added another string to her bow, being mentored and guided by Jane Slattery to begin integrating Natural Intelligence Farming into her consulting. Natural Intelligence Farming helps people with integrating true presence of self with decision-making to help people transition from management to stewardship of their land. Robin is also a key member of the NutriSoil HUB Care Team. Today Robin and I discuss her reasons for changing her career path to work more holistically with farming, food, diversity, and people. We also discuss the enormous barrier healthy food production systems are faced with, which is disadvantaging both farmers and consumers. The post Episode 29 – The Small voice of Big Change with Robin Tait appeared first on NutriSoil.

In Episode 28 of the Biological Farming Roundtable podcast Nakala and David Hardwick speak with Western Australian farmer Rob Hetherington from Lake King. Rob’s grandparents first moved to the region in 1927 battling scrub and deep sodic soils and managed to carve a future for the family of farmers when many others walked off the land. We follow the Hetherington’s amazing journey and discuss the changes to management over nearly 100 years, which have resulted in Rob recently being awarded the Wheatbelt NRM Soil Health Champion for 2022. The post Episode 28 – From 1927 to next generation cropping in WA with Rob Hetherington appeared first on NutriSoil.

In episode 27 Nakala speaks to the experts on multispecies cropping and the role they play in improving soil, plant and animal health and reducing the synthetic inputs as costs continue to increase impacting farming profits. The post Episode 27 – Marvelous multispecies with Grant Sims and Simon Mattsson appeared first on NutriSoil.