Shows
INSIDE AGRI-TURFFAREWELL 2024: Selection of ear-catching momentsIn this festive episode of 'Inside Agri-Turf', I recap highlights from recent episodes.This is episode 135, and I thank all those who tune in and listen to a stellar line-up of guests in increasing numbers, and to all guests over the past five years, thank you for your contributions, wisdom and experiences.The podcast will return towards the end of January - after we have completed a house move.Below are the time-links to all the extracts in this episode - all the full versions can be found on the Inside Agri-Turf website2024-12-2026 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFSELLER AND BUYER featuring Martin Hamer, tractor salesman - and farmer"I don't want to upset farmers who buy my tractors - or butchers who buy my beef cattle"A view from both sides of fence on the current farmers stand-off with the Government over inheritance tax from Martin Hamer, National Sales Manager for AGCO's Fendt tractor brand - and a farmer himself and active member of the National Farmers Union.Martin shares his concerns about keeping the public onside during any demonstrations or disruptive actions. He discusses the possible involvement of Jeremy Clarkson - and how the breaking up family farms would be harmful to...2024-12-1239 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFSPENDING AND SUPPORTING (Part One) with Stephen Howarth and Jane CraigieChris discusses the ongoing standoff between the farming community and the UK government over inheritance tax and its potential impact on British food production.Guests Stephen Howarth, an agricultural economist, and Jane Craigie, a leading agri-food marketeer, share insights on current market trends, the effect on tractor and machinery registrations, and the broader ramifications for the agricultural supply sector. The episode also explores the emotional and financial strain on family farms and the role of supporting industries in mitigating these challenges.02:12 Introducing the Guests03:13 Stephen Howarth16:20 Jane Craigie3...2024-12-0539 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFFARMERS AND THE MAINSTREAM MEDIA with Anna Jones (Rewind)In this rewind of an episode published in January 2023, Chris talks with Anna Jones, a journalist and founder of Just Farmers. Anna discusses her background, growing up on a family farm on the Welsh border and her career in journalism, including working on the BBC's Countryfile. The conversation explores her motivations behind founding Just Farmers, an organization dedicated to providing media training to farmers, and her book 'Divide,' which addresses the disconnect between urban and rural communities. Anna sheds light on the challenges and successes of bridging these communities, the impact of public perceptions...2024-11-2843 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFPUNCHING ABOVE OUR WEIGHT with David Kirschner (Part Two)Chris Biddle continues his conversation with David Kirschner, who discusses the challenges of promoting this niche yet crucial industry and the steps taken to secure better funding for apprentices. He details a critical meeting at Pershore College in 2018 where he outlined the industry's needs, reflecting on the progress made despite initial funding hurdles. Kirschner also highlights the role of social media and technology in advancing the industry's visibility and career opportunities. The conversation is a deep dive into the meticulous effort required to secure necessary resources and recognition for a sector often overshadowed by more...2024-11-2035 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFSELLING TRACTORS LIKE SWEETIES: In conversation with David Kirschner (Part One)In this two-part episode, Chris is in conversation with David Kirschner, a seasoned agricultural engineer and consultant in the land-based engineering industry.David shares his extensive experience, from his early career as an apprentice in tractor servicing to influential roles with several tractor brands including Massey Ferguson, Renault and Fendt. He discusses the evolution and challenges within the industry, including the pivotal We Are Land Based Engineering campaign, the launch of the LTA scheme, and the impact of the Richard Report on apprenticeships. David also touches on his personal battle with health issues...2024-11-1337 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFFROM PLANES TO POWER TOOLS with Mark Earles, AEA PresidentChris Biddle welcomes Mark Earles of Makita UK, the President of the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA), to Inside Agri-Turf, where they delve deep into the intricacies of the agricultural engineering sector. The conversation begins with a reflection on how the industry has evolved over the years, particularly in light of recent challenges and opportunities, such as the ongoing sustainability discourse. Mark shares insights from his early career, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in engineering roles. He recounts his pathway from aircraft engineering to the outdoor power equipment market, illustrating how diverse experiences shape one's professional journey. 2024-11-0641 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURF' MOST EXCITING TIME TO BE AN AGRICULTURAL ENGINEER' with Dr Mark MooreDr Mark Moore, the Director of Government Affairs for AGCO Corporation in Europe and President of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE) shares his inspiring journey from a modest academic background to a key position with a global farm machinery corporation. He discusses the critical role agricultural engineers play in addressing the challenges of feeding a growing global population, emphasizing the need for innovation and collaboration across the food production chain. Mark's experiences, including overcoming a life-threatening illness and his extensive work in precision farming, highlight the importance of practical knowledge and adaptability in the...2024-10-2341 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFSALTEX: A Professional Showcase with Geoff WebbChris Biddle is in conversation with Geoff Webb, the Chief Executive of the Grounds Management Exhibition (GMA). The episode spotlights the GMA's upcoming SALTEX trade exhibition, highlighting its significance to the turf management industry. First, they pay tribute to Derek Walder, rightly referred to as Mr SALTEX. Now in his late 80s, Derek is retiring this year having worked on and managed 42 editions of the trade show.Geoff talks about the ongoing evolution of the show and its role in connecting important stakeholders from government bodies, leading sporting bodies and influential buyers to suppliers and...2024-10-0937 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFVIEWS FROM THE LONG GRASS: Showtime or Showdown? with Keith ChristianIn this 'Views from the Long Grass' feature, Chris and Keith Christian discuss the proliferation of turfcare shows such as SALTEX, BTME and now Groundsfest and ask whether this is overkill for a small industry.Keith shares his experiences from decades in the sector, including memorable moments and insights into what makes an effective trade show. The episode also touches on possible changes and considerations for future events, balancing indoor and outdoor formats, and the importance of ‘pressing the flesh’ at these events.Inside Agri-Turf is devised, recorded and edited by Chris Biddle chri...2024-09-2636 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFWHAT HAPPENED NEXT? Stihl Revisited featuring Robin LennieChris Biddle revisits a 2020 interview with Robin Lennie, former Managing Director at Stihl GB recorded during COVID-19 restrictions. The conversation highlights Robin’s 30 year career, Stihl's business growth, and the impact of the pandemic on his retirement plans. It also explores the dynamics between manufacturers and dealers, especially relating to changes in distribution channels and strategies as Robin reflects on the importance of effective communication in managing change.The episode concludes with Chris discussing the dealer reaction to Stihl's recent policy changes and emphasizes the need for maintaining strong dealer relationships.2024-09-1934 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFIT'S BACK! Preview of Season 5Chris Biddle announces the comeback of his podcast, Inside Agri-Turf, after a summer break.He reflects on his extensive career in the land-based engineering industry and expresses his passion for sharing stories and insights about farm and grass machinery, and introduces new podcast features, such as 'A View from the Long Grass' and 'What Happened Next?' There are previews of upcoming content, including industry trends and pivotal events like Stihl's product distribution shift to Screwfix and a forthcoming update on heritage engine maker Briggs Stratton who have just emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy....2024-09-0521 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFONE, TWO, THREE - AND OUTAfter four years, I have decided to bring down the curtain on my Inside Agri-Turf podcast for reasons that I explain during this episode.It's been an exciting and highly satisfying journey that I would not have missed for the world.Huge thanks to all the wonderful guests from all over the world who contributed their time and expertise on a range of thought-provoking episodes - and to the listeners who tuned in and download almost 12,000 episodes. Sincere thanks to some special contributors for their valuable help and advice, including:St...2024-04-1815 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFAGRI-TURF AGENDA FEBRUARY 2024: End of the line for Tom, Dick and Harry?This is the first of a series of monthly episodes called AGRI-TURF AGENDA, an audio magazine with some of the current news stories of interest or relevance to the land-based engineering community.This February 2024 issue carries the news of the collapse of the Small Robot Company. Whether small scale could be better than big scale farm autonomy featuring Kit Franklin? Could the tractor become a political weapon in the UK with an eye-witness report from Dan Pratt in Paris? Why have I recently had a battery implanted in my back? The overkill of turf shows.01:56 S...2024-02-0523 min
Therapy NattersLearned Helplessness & Attribution TheorySend us a textIn this week's episode of Therapy Natters, psychotherapists Richard Nicholls and Fiona Biddle dive deep into the concept of learned helplessness and attributions. They discuss how various facets such as ability, effort, task difficulty and luck contribute to the perception of success or failure in tasks. They also highlight how people attribute their failures or shortcomings to different factors, thereby developing patterns of learned helplessness.Join our Evolve to Thrive programmeWhatsapp usSubmit a question Follow us on Facebook or...2024-01-3135 minTherapy NattersPainSend us a textIn this episode, hosts Richard Nicholls and Fiona Biddle speak with Dr. Rebecca Berman, a pain consultant with the NHS, to help explain the influence of perception and emotion on pain, the potential impacts of psychological trauma on pain experience, and techniques for managing pain.Join our Evolve to Thrive programmeWhatsapp usSubmit a question Follow us on Facebook or Instagram The Richard Nicholls PodcastThe Brookhouse Hypnotherapy Group YouTube ChannelRichard's Social Media Links2024-01-1035 minTherapy NattersShameSend us a textIn this week's episode Richard Nicholls and Fiona Biddle explore the complex emotions of guilt and shame.Join our Evolve to Thrive programmeWhatsapp usSubmit a question Follow us on Facebook or Instagram The Richard Nicholls PodcastThe Brookhouse Hypnotherapy Group YouTube ChannelRichard's Social Media LinksBluesky X Insta Facbook Youtube TikTok ThreadsListen to Richard on Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/richardnicholls2024-01-0332 minTherapy NattersAttachmentSend us a textIn this episode of Therapy Natters, psychotherapists Richard Nicholls and Fiona Biddle discuss the concept of attachment theory. They explore how our early experiences with caregivers can shape our interactions and reactions as adults, whether it be in friendships, relationships, or even why we follow a football team.00:00 Introduction01:50 The Role of Therapists and Client-Centred Therapy03:14 The Power of Self-Directed Therapy03:37 The Therapist's Role in Difficult Situations05:54 Understanding Emotions and Feelings06:39 Unlabeled Feelings and Childhood Experiences09:37 Introduction to Attachment Theory11:38 Exploring the Origins of...2023-11-2238 min
Ministry Mondays with MegEpisode 56, Paul Schneider- Oasis, Evergreen, & Co-Creators IncubatorJoin Rev. Meg Biddle and Rev. Paul Schneider as they chat about the many changes in Paul's ministry over the last year. Oasis, Co-Creator's Incubator, a church closure, and a new job. 2023-11-1344 min
Ministry Mondays with MegEpisode 56, Paul Schneider- Oasis, Evergreen, & Co-Creators IncubatorJoin Rev. Meg Biddle and Rev. Paul Schneider as they chat about the many changes in Paul's ministry over the last year. Oasis, Co-Creator's Incubator, a church closure, and a new job. 2023-11-1344 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFCOUNTAX: BEGINNING AND END OF A BRAND with Chris Biddle and Harry HandkammerAriensCo, the US parent company of British lawn tractor maker, Countax have announced that the production of both Countax and Westwood tractors at Great Haseley in Oxfordshire will cease by the end of 2023 –the Great Haseley site will be used as a sales and service operation for the home market only.The Ariens statement suggests that there is no future for Countax or Westwood garden tractors made in the UK, or anywhere else - and have confirmed that there are no plans to use the Countax or Westwood brand names in the future.In this ep...2023-11-0239 minMinistry Mondays with MegEpisode 54, Travis Ball
Pastor Travis Ball began working as an ASL interpreter in the education system before being called to serve as the pastor at First Baptist Church in Parsons, KS, in 2018. Meg and Pastor Travis chat about surviving a brain tumor and life in ministry, including Care Cupboard, a hygiene pantry. Pastor Travis and his wife are the parents of three young children. Care Cupboard https://www.facebook.com/CareCupboardFBC Parsons, KS www.parsonsfbc.comAll reactions:1Meg Biddle
2023-10-2345 min
Ministry Mondays with MegEpisode 54, Travis BallPastor Travis Ball began working as an ASL interpreter in the education system before being called to serve as the pastor at First Baptist Church in Parsons, KS, in 2018. Meg and Pastor Travis chat about surviving a brain tumor and life in ministry, including Care Cupboard, a hygiene pantry. Pastor Travis and his wife are the parents of three young children. Care Cupboard https://www.facebook.com/CareCupboardFBC Parsons, KS www.parsonsfbc.comAll reactions:1Meg Biddle2023-10-2345 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFANNOUNCEMENT: NEW PODCAST SHOW with Chris BiddleTo complement this Inside Agri-Turf podcast, I am delighted to announce the creation of a new show.The Agri-Turf Academy will focus on people not products. It will publish episodes of relevance to anyone working in, or associated with, the land-based engineering sector featuring advice and tips on sales and marketing, customer relations, recruitment and retention, display and merchandising, well-being issues, social media - and much more.All delivered by experts in their field.This episode includes brief extracts from two of the early episodes, both focussing on the most important person to...2023-09-2910 minMinistry Mondays with MegThe Risk of Being WokeMeg Biddle and Curtiss Paul DeYoung chat about DeYoung's book- The Risk of Being Woke: Sermonic Reflections For Activists. The book is available at www.judsonpress.com
Curtiss Paul DeYoung serves as the Co-CEO of the Minnesota Council of Churches and is an ordained minister through the Church of God (Anderson, IN)2023-07-1040 min
Ministry Mondays with MegThe Risk of Being WokeMeg Biddle and Curtiss Paul DeYoung chat about DeYoung's book- The Risk of Being Woke: Sermonic Reflections For Activists. The book is available at www.judsonpress.com Curtiss Paul DeYoung serves as the Co-CEO of the Minnesota Council of Churches and is an ordained minister through the Church of God (Anderson, IN)2023-07-1040 min
Ministry Mondays with Meg#InThisTogetherRev. Meg Biddle and Curtis Ramsey-Lucas chat about the book #InThisTogetherCurtis Ramsey-Lucas is editor of The Christian Citizen, a digital-first publication of American Baptist Home Mission Societies and editor of the book, #InThisTogether: Ministries in Times of Crisis, published by Judson Press. An award-winning writer, he has been published in The Washington Post, The Christian Century, Religion News Service, Sojourners, and Baptist News Global. An accomplished musician and songwriter, his song “Broken and Blue” was a 2012 honorable mention in the American Songwriter lyric contest. #InThisTogether can be purchased at www.judsonpress.comMo...2023-06-0530 minMinistry Mondays with Meg#InThisTogetherRev. Meg Biddle and Curtis Ramsey-Lucas chat about the book #InThisTogether
Curtis Ramsey-Lucas is editor of The Christian Citizen, a digital-first publication of American Baptist Home Mission Societies and editor of the book, #InThisTogether: Ministries in Times of Crisis, published by Judson Press. An award-winning writer, he has been published in The Washington Post, The Christian Century, Religion News Service, Sojourners, and Baptist News Global. An accomplished musician and songwriter, his song “Broken and Blue” was a 2012 honorable mention in the American Songwriter lyric contest.
#InThisTogether can be purchased at www.judsonpress.com
Mo...2023-06-0530 min
Ministry Mondays with MegDucks and FiretrucksMeg Biddle and Rev. Dr. Jonathan Malone chat about the wilderness, Baptist stuff, ducks, and firetrucks. Hilarity ensues. Jonathan Malone has been an American Baptist pastor for 20 years and is the author of A Peculiar Church. He actively blogs at "Theological Snob" and podcasts on "Twelve Enough," both of which can be found at www.twelveenough.com. Malone is also the founder of Wilderness Journeys, through which he serves as a guide for experiencing the wilderness with the divine (www.wildernessjourneys.org).You can purchase Jonathan's book at www.judsonpress.com 2023-05-3053 minMinistry Mondays with MegDucks and FiretrucksMeg Biddle and Rev. Dr. Jonathan Malone chat about the wilderness, Baptist stuff, ducks, and firetrucks. Hilarity ensues.
Jonathan Malone has been an American Baptist pastor for 20 years and is the author of A Peculiar Church. He actively blogs at "Theological Snob" and podcasts on "Twelve Enough," both of which can be found at www.twelveenough.com. Malone is also the founder of Wilderness Journeys, through which he serves as a guide for experiencing the wilderness with the divine (www.wildernessjourneys.org).
You can purchase Jonathan's book at www.judsonpress.com 2023-05-3053 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFON A ROLL with Richard Robinson and Gary Barwell (Republished)PODCAST produced on behalf of Autoguide Ltd, first published January 2022 - moved to Inside Agri-Turf channel to centralise all published episodes (May 2023)A familiar sight at cricket grounds around the world, the Auto-Roller manufactured by Autoguide Equipment Ltd, reached its century in 2021.Hand-built by craftsmen at the company's Wiltshire factory, the Auto-Roller is the choice of many leading groundsmen at Test and County grounds for the upkeep and preparation of their playing surface.(0:41) The podcast traces the development of turf machinery used in cricket, starting with the invention of the lawnmower (as we...2023-05-1028 minMinistry Mondays with MegThe Pedaling PastorRevs Meg Biddle and Travis Norvell discuss Travis's book, Church on the Move. Norvell willingly gives up his four wheels for two.
Rev. G. Travis Norvell is the pastor of Judson Memorial Baptist Church in Minneapolis, MN, and an adjunct faculty member at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities. He has served as an American Baptist Baptist Pastor for 22 years in both small towns and urban churches. He is passionate about the social gospel in the local church as the link for both social justice and church renewal.
...2023-04-2438 min
Ministry Mondays with MegThe Pedaling PastorRevs Meg Biddle and Travis Norvell discuss Travis's book, Church on the Move. Norvell willingly gives up his four wheels for two. Rev. G. Travis Norvell is the pastor of Judson Memorial Baptist Church in Minneapolis, MN, and an adjunct faculty member at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities. He has served as an American Baptist Baptist Pastor for 22 years in both small towns and urban churches. He is passionate about the social gospel in the local church as the link for both social justice and church renewal. ...2023-04-2438 minMinistry Mondays with MegMinistry with the Community at MeckMINRev. Meg Biddle and Rev LeDayne McLeese Polaski chat about ecumenical Ministry within the community at MeckMIN. "Creating transformative community by coming together across differences with vulnerability, humility, and curiosity. That's my job." 2023-04-1244 min
Ministry Mondays with MegMinistry with the Community at MeckMINRev. Meg Biddle and Rev LeDayne McLeese Polaski chat about ecumenical Ministry within the community at MeckMIN. "Creating transformative community by coming together across differences with vulnerability, humility, and curiosity. That's my job." 2023-04-1244 minMinistry Mondays with MegThe Church at the WallRev. Meg Biddle and Rev. Dr. Seth David Clark chat about the Church at the Wall. Stories of Hope along the San Diego/Tijuana border. 2023-04-1240 min
Ministry Mondays with MegThe Church at the WallRev. Meg Biddle and Rev. Dr. Seth David Clark chat about the Church at the Wall. Stories of Hope along the San Diego/Tijuana border. 2023-04-1240 minMinistry Mondays with Meg24/7 Embodying Christ-Like LeadershipRev. Meg Biddle and Rev. Dr. Leslie Copeland chat about Leslie's new book, 24/7 Embodying Christ-Like Leadership, available at judsonpress.com2023-04-0433 minMinistry Mondays with MegTable LifeRev. Meg Biddle and Rev. Dr. Greg Mamula chat about Greg's book, Table Life2023-04-0440 minMinistry Mondays with MegIn the BeginningRev Meg Biddle and Rev. Scotty Robertson chat about life in ministry in the very first episode of Ministry Mondays with Meg, Recorded in March 2022.2023-04-0430 minMinistry Mondays with MegHealing Extension Maternal Network (HEM)Rev. Meg Biddle and Dr. Ruth Alerte Jones chat about the Healing Extension Maternal Network (HEM) offering healing after pregnancy loss.2023-04-0437 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFAGRI-TURF TALKS No 6: ALL WOMEN PANELThis is the latest in the series of Agri-Turf Talks panel discussions first launched in 2020 which has previously featured topics such as The Future of the Dealership, Agricultural Engineering and the Environment, Challenges of Recruitment and Combatting Supply Issues This episode features an all-women panel discussing career opportunities in an industry often described as being full of 'middle class, middle aged men'.Chris Biddle hosts the panel comprising Poppy Burrough, Sales Support Specialist JCB Agricultural Sales and Marketing, Hannah Robinson, Operations and Marketing Manager Brian Robinson Machinery, Lauren Savage, Technical Trainer AP Air Europe and Ja...2023-02-1640 min
The Great AntidoteCraig Biddle on Philosophy and ObjectivismSend us a textCraig Biddle is the founder and director of the Objective Standard Institute, as well as the author of several books including Loving Life. Today, he talks to us about the importance of philosophy and the different components of philosophy. Then he explains the philosophy of objectivism, and we explore common objections to it. Listen in and stay tuned for more episodes on the various classical liberal philosophies! Support the showNever miss another AdamSmithWorks update.Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.2022-12-0955 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFBIRTH OF A BRAND Part One with Harry HandkammerThis is the 80th episode of Inside Agri-Turf published on 27 October 2022, the 80th birthday of podcast host and producer Chris Biddle.Birth of a Brand features Harry Handkammer, whose company manufactured attachments exclusively for a garden tractor manufacturer. In 1989, the supply arrangement was cancelled overnight. Faced with losing virtually all his business and having just moved into a new factory, Harry decided to build his own tractor which was designed, tooled and ready for production in just over three months.His newly created brand, Countax, went on to claim market leadership within three years and...2022-10-2731 min
Jon Biddle PodcastKiller in my Mind Book OneThe first book from volume one of the Killer In My Head Series by Jon Biddle is a thriller book chronicling the life and crimes of John Wayne Gacy. Like his other murder mystery books, Biddle’s latest horror book tells the story of Pogo, the Clown, along with a true-crime recounting about the real-life serial killer it is based on.Born to a toxic and abusive father, John Wayne Gacy is no stranger to violence. Growing up, he yearned for his father’s approval, but physical and mental abuse was what he got instead. Determined to plea...2022-07-0802 min
Traffic Handler PodcastSelling with Words and Numbers | Amy BiddleSelling with Words and Numbers Today we’re talking about using the words in your marketing to sell more. We’re also going to talk about reading the numbers that the words produce. That way you can make better decisions in your marketing and advertising. In the show I promised two things: The link to the Facebook Ads Library: https://www.facebook.com/ads/library Where to learn more about direct response marketing and copywriting. Aside from collecting advertising from other sellers -- which you should do if you’...2022-07-0724 min
Traffic Handler PodcastMeans and Ends: Control in eComm Marketing | Amy BiddleToday’s episode is about gaining control in your marketing… and control is almost everyone’s favorite topic when it comes to business. Today I’m talking about means, and ends. We’re looking at what you have control over, and what you don’t. Frankly there is a lot of misinformation spread about what you have control over. All of those people you see online talking about scaling to a 7-figure business. That’s great — if you do what you can control. Dream...2022-06-2322 min
Traffic Handler Podcast5 Things to Do to Promote Your Online Store Right Now | Amy BiddleToday’s episode features five marketing steps you can do to promote your store. My partner and I just got back from a weekend away. One of our stops included a trip to a local alpaca farm, Laurel Run Alpacas, in Hawthorne Florida. We got to meet the alpacas, and we had a tour of the farm with owner Kristin Schoenberger. Kristin cares for her small herd and manages all of the shearing and fiber production from her farm. Her beautiful fibers can be found at https://www.sunshinestateyarns.com/. If you're crafty and you're into fiber arts...2022-06-1628 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFTHE HIRE AND SALES MIX with Max PearceDo hire and sales mix - or are they different business models?Dealers often stock a few specialist machines to hire, or loan machines to cover breakdowns.However, they tend to view hire as time-consuming and risky with excessive paperwork to cover health and safety issues. They also believe hire takes away sales opportunities.Max Pearce sees things differently. He runs a plant hire company in Southampton and recently bought a local garden machinery dealership - and now runs both businesses side-by side as one company.He tells Chris Biddle about...2022-03-2427 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFRUSSIA 'NEEDS AT LEAST 180,000 NEW TRACTORS'QUOTING former Russian Agricultural Minister, Alexander Tkachev, the organisers of YugAgro, the largest Russian farm machinery exhibition, say that Russia needs ".. at least 180,000 new tractors and 80,000 new combines" to fill the gap in Russia's total farm machinery pool which has shrunk by more 50% in the last decade.No wonder major US and European manufacturers have ramped up their presence in Russia over the past 10-15 years. It is a country with huge farming potential, which has been starved of the machinery and new technology it needed to make the most of its natural resources.Manufacturers...2022-03-1824 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFTHE FUTURE FOR AGRI-TURF DEALERSHIPS with James Tuckwell, David Withers and Howard PullenThe agri-turf machinery industry will always be stronger with manufacturers and dealers working in harmony to provide customers with the best possible buying and support experience.But as the industry and technology evolves, what factors might impact on the future shape of the UK dealer network in the years ahead?In this Agri-Turf Talks episode hosted by Chris Biddle, a panel comprising James Tuckwell managing director of multi-branch John Deere dealership Tuckwells, David Withers , managing director of Iseki UK and Howard Pullen, Board Member of European dealer association CLIMMAR share their thoughts.But...2022-03-0447 min
INSIDE AGRI-TURFCHALLENGES OF RECRUITMENT with Richard Charles, Simon Holmes, Jeremy Gibbs and David KirschnerFor the third in this series of Agri-Turf Talks, a panel drawn from across the agri-turf sector discuss the issues they face recruiting new talent into the industry. The panel is:Richard Charles: After Sales Customer Care and Training Manager, UK and Ireland AGCO CorporationSimon Holmes : Group Service Manager Agriculture and Construction T H WHITE GroupJeremy Gibbs: Farmer and Founder of Forces FarmingDavid Kirschner: Independent Industry ConsultantChris Biddle: Inside Agri-Turf HostAmongst the issues covered are the role of recruitment agencies, apprenticeships, training...2022-02-0242 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFSEASON THREE TRAILERSeason Three of Inside Agri-Turf launches on 2 February 2022 with a new episode of Agri-Turf Talks comprising a panel discussing the recruitment of new talent into the industry.Chris Biddle provides an overview of the forthcoming season and includes some tasty snippets from the opening episode.He also previews the launch of a new companion show Agri-Turf AgendaInside Agri-Turf websiteSample of Agri-Turf Agenda episode2022-01-2810 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFFAREWELL 2021Seasons Greeting to all the wonderful listeners to the Inside Agri-Turf Podcast. Now just 18 months old, the podcast been a terrific learning curve and a joy to produce as the listener numbers climbThank you!This episode reflects on the year to date, and provides a few pointers to future episodes.Episode 55 is the penultimate episode of Season Two. The final episode from this season (Episode 56) will include a selection of stand-out moments and quotes from this season and will be published in early January 2022. Season Three is well into the...2021-12-2314 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFAGRI-TURF TALK with Shaun Groom, Angus Lindsay and Jason NettleChris Biddle hosts the second in the AGRI-TURF TALK panel discussion featuring Shaun Groom (Merlo UK and current AEA President), Angus Lindsay (Group Head of Assets and Fleet Management at idVerde) and Jason Nettle (Director, Winchester Garden Machinery).The panel discussion includes:03:50 Current supply difficulties16:10 Industry image and recruitment26:20 The future impact of COP2635:45 Dealing with adverse criticismFinally the panel are asked about their 'go-to' mottos or role modelsEpisode is 48 minutes 2021-12-0849 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFWHOSE GOT THE ENERGY?Fossil fuels are on the way out - in time. What will replace petrol and diesel for the tractors and machinery used by farmers to produce food to feed the world's growing population?Host Chris Biddle examines the options - and reflects on the recent Annual Conference of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE) with its theme of Future Fuels in Agriculture which co-incided with the COP26 Climate Change conference in Glasgow(03:50) Hear how school children are starting to Do, Do, Do as an antidote to protesters chanting of blah, blah, blah(05:40) How...2021-12-0123 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFDealernomics@70 with Tom Black, MD Cyril Johnston & Co Ltd, BelfastFounded 70 years ago when Cyril Johnston met a young enterprising engineer, Douglas Hayter, Cyril Johnston & Co Ltd has had a seamless relationship with Hayter mowers (now part of Toro) to the present day. The running of the family company then passed to Cyril's son, Dolway and David who have grown the business to encompass retail, hire, distribution and manufacturing.A year ago, Tom Black, who trained at accountants Price Waterhouse (now PCW) was appointed as Managing Director. As a family outsider, he tells Chris Biddle how he helped refocus the company on its core business of grass...2021-09-3030 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFDealernomics@2 with Tim Lane, ATH MachineryThe first in a trilogy of podcasts called Dealernomics talking to three turfcare dealers about the economics and evolution of their business over the ages. First up, Tim Lane who started his business, ATH Machinery, 2 years ago, and just months before lockdown.He will be followed by Steve Halley of Cheshire Turf Machinery (established 25 years) and Tom Black, md of Cyril Johnston, Belfast (70 years) After holding senior management roles in a multi-branch dealership group, Tim realised a personal ambition by starting his own turf machinery sales and service business in the heart of Hampshire focussing...2021-09-1630 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFSowing the Seeds of STEM with Josh Payne (NFU)“We have the technology to blow little minds”That is the view of Josh Payne, Education Manager for the National Farmers Union (NFU). A former primary school teacher, Josh tells Chris Biddle in the latest Inside Agri-Turf podcast that the best time to engage children’s interest in STEM subjects, demonstrated through the prism of farming, food and nutrition is during their very early school days. By the time they get to secondary school, many have developed pre-conceived ideas and opinions through a variety of external resources he says.Very few small children will end up in...2021-09-0141 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFChannelling You Tube with James HayesTo complement his social media activity on Facebook, Instagram and other platforms, Devon based power equipment dealer, James Hayes, has established a dedicated You Tube channel during the past 12 months which has had over 400,000 views to date.To help achieve this, James has taken on filmmaker Will Evans, a university graduate and Royal Television Society Award winner.The portfolio of more than 75 films on the Hayes Machinery You Tube channel include product reviews, How To videos, restoration videos and comparison videos covering garden machinery, chainsaws, ATVs, trailers and power tools as well as ‘tongue in ch...2021-08-0635 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFAttracting young talent with Amanda Dawson and Andy Luikens of RDO Equipment Co (US)'Start to interest the young in a career in agri-turf from a very early age - and keep that fire lit".That is the key message from Amanda Dawson, HR Director and Andy Luikens, Talent Acquisition Manager of RDO Equipment Co, the ag and construction equipment dealership based at Fargo, North Dakota which operates 75 branches in 9 States across the US and has partnerships in several international markets.The business was started from a single branch in North Dakota by Ronald Offutt at the age of 26 in 1968 and has grown into one of the largest dealer...2021-07-2933 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFA Collective Voice The Sequel: AEA and BAGMA now officially togetherFollowing the recent announcement that the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) representing UK manufacturers and suppliers has acquired the UK dealers trade association BAGMA (British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association), Chris Biddle talks to Ruth Bailey, the AEA CEO and Keith Christian, Director of BAGMA about the rationale behind the move.Amongst the questions being addressed are:Will there be a conflict of interest with the AEA now owning the dealer association?How has the deal been received by members?Will the benefits negotiated for BAGMA members now be available to AEA members?Did the previous owner...2021-07-0844 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFA Year of 'Podding' in reviewInside Agri-Turf podcast creator and host, Chris Biddle, reflects on starting the podcast 12 months ago, finding an audience, and getting to grips with audio editing after 30 years of manipulating words rather than sound waves.He reveals the outline stats of downloads and unique listeners over the past year, the international reach of the podcast - and which episodes attracted the most downloads. There is also a canny insight into the beginnings of a 'coupling' that perhaps had its roots in the very first episode There is also a reminder of some the external noises that...2021-07-0121 min
The Veil BreakersPeace and Calm Mom: Episode 13: an anniversary episode starring spike biddleToday's episode my husband Spike and I have a raw and authentic conversation on our couch about our anniversary trip, Portland, ME, and all things US!This may be somewhat scattered but it was fun! Spike has never listened to a podcast but he seems like a pro! Not necessarily the answers I expected but he was honest and true to himself and that's why I married him!Follow the Peace and Calm Mom journey on IG: https://www.instagram.com/peace.and.calm.mom/Support the show2021-06-1620 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 34: Against the Odds: Tom's StoryRecorded during Mental Health Awareness week, I talk to Tom Johnston who experienced depression and a series of mental health issues as he took his first steps into agricultural engineering, a career that he had always dreamed off.For a 'tractor-mad' boy, he never wanted to do anything else, but several twists and turns resulted in set-backs, until he decided to return to college after a couple of experiences with dealers were blighted by his mental state.A chance opportunity, resulted in a job on a golf course. He immediately connected with the turfcare industry...2021-05-2425 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 33 Season Two PreviewAfter a short break, Chris Biddle summarises the content of future episodes of Inside Agri-Turf which re-launches with Season Two on 24 May 2021.Topics covered will include mental health, coping with a business-threatening event, diversity, the importance of family businesses with their 'name above the door', the future role for independent dealers in the future.As ever, Chris will also reflect on the changing news agenda as it affects the industry as a whole and dealers in particular. Also see the new website www.inside-agriturf.comContact Chris at chris.biddle@btinternet...2021-05-1707 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 32: Series One Wrap UpIn this short episode, Chris Biddle reflects on the background,, the production and the content of Series One of Inside Agri-Turf as it takes a short break - and provides some thoughts on the theme for Series Two which will commence in May 20212021-04-1211 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 30: Managing a machinery fleet with Neal Harper, Machinery Manager Glendale LtdAs machinery manager for Glendale, a leading management company maintaining substantial areas of green open spaces, forestry and sports facilities, Neal Harper is responsible for the purchase, upkeep and use of over 5000 pieces of equipment and vehicles.In this podcast, he talks to Chris Biddle about his route into the agri-turf machinery industry, of his years working in varied roles for a number of dealers before taking up his present role which has meant switching from being a supplier to that of a significant customer.He says that it is important that he, as the...2021-03-2228 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 29 The Success of Succession with Chris BiddleIn this episode, Chris Biddle reflects on the people and the quotes that have stood out during the current season of Inside Agri-TurfIn particular, he discusses how and why so many sons and daughters have followed parents into the family business, bringing with them new skills. He also picks out the stand-moment when the industry was described in glowing terms - and finally reflects on the perfect mission statement for dealersTime stamps for subjects covered05:01 The importance of Ps and Qs06:56 The stand-out quote of the season09:28 ...2021-03-1718 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 27: Riding the Waves with Erik Hogervorst, President of CLIMMAR and Keith Christian of BAGMAErik Hogervorst is President of CLIMMAR, the pan-European trade association representing over 19,000 farm and turfcare machinery sales and service dealers.He is a director of a family owned Dutch dealership with a Kubota franchises and specialist divisions in fork lift trucks and spraying equipment, and has been CLIMMAR President for 6 years.In this wide ranging discussion with Chris Biddle he is accompanied by Keith Christian from BAGMA, the UK's representative on CLIMMAR.They reflect on issues impacting dealers across Europe including dealer contracts, recruitment and training, the handling of data, the future of...2021-03-0137 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 25 Retail is Detail with Murray BurtonCould this be a year when independents come into their own following the decimation of so many well know store brands?Display and merchandising consultant Murray Burton who has worked with leading brands, national retail chains and specialist lawn and garden machinery dealers is in conversation with Chris Biddle about a new age of retailing. He says that the 'bricks and mortar' department store model (Debenhams, British Home Stores, Woolworths etc) is unlikely to succeed in the future but those High Street names that do adapt will still be part of the retail mix.2021-02-1528 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 24 From Tanks to Tractors with Jeremy Gibbs and Will FosterIn this episode Chris Biddle talks to two people with fascinating accounts on how ex service personnel find fulfilling careers in agriculture after leaving the services.After training at Sparsholt Agricultural College in Hampshire and Harper Adams University, Jeremy Gibbs joined John Deere where he worked in both the agricultural and turf machinery divisions based in the UK and Germany. After several roles in training and product management, he left Deere after almost 10 years and two years ago set up Forces Farming which acts a liaison between service personnel leaving the forces and job opportunities in the...2021-02-0846 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 23 Brexit across the Irish Sea with Paul Butterly of FGM ClaymoreWhen the UK formally left the UK on 1 January 2020, there was a new set of trading challenges for companies, and not least Irish companies with branches on both sides of the Irish Sea.Paul Butterly of FGM Claymore talks to Chris Biddle about the impact on his family-owned company as a buyer and seller of imported products with trading bases in the Ireland and the UK.He also recalls the early 1990's when setting up in the UK and carrying a lawnmower as baggage on Ryanair during the fledgling days of the low-cost airline! 2021-02-0124 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 22 Unearthing new talent with Richard Charles of AGCO CorporationChris Biddle talks to Richard Charles, UK and Ireland Training Manager for the AGCO Corporation about the ongoing challenge of recruiting new, talented employees.Richard considers the agricultural engineering industry to be a 'closed shop' with most new employees being recruited from other companies already in the industry. We should be looking for candidates outside the normal channels he says, and that a unified industry presence at skills or jobs fair would be far more effective than individual companiesHe also discusses the impact of COVID on the company's Apprenticeship and training programme...2021-01-2536 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 21 Made in Britain with Austin Jarrett of Allett Ltd2021 marks the centenary of the first mass produced petrol engine made by Atco. Costing around £20 it was lightweight and brought lawnmowing to the masses.Here, Chris Biddle chats to Austin Jarrett, md of Staffordshire based Allett Ltd who in 2011 bought all the intellectual drawings, plants, equipment and tooling for the Atco range when the factory at Stowmarket closed.Recognising that the British loves their lawns with stripes created by the cylinder or reel, his company has become the largest supplier of cylinder mowers in the UK with a range that extends from largest models at u...2021-01-1828 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 20 Charlie Nicklin: from JCB to heading professional engineering bodyChris Biddle chats to Charlie Nicklin, the recently appointed CEO of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers. (IAgrE).From a farming family, at the age of 10 Charlie was given a 'little grey Fergie' by his grandfather, which is still part of growing collection.Having gained a degree in engineering at Harper Adams, he subsequently spent 24 years in senior engineering roles at JCB. However, Charlie wanted a challenge that would involve taking him back to basics in the engineering world, and spreading the message about the career opportunities in agricultural engineering at a time of an explosion...2021-01-1142 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 19 Echoes of 2020A special end-of-season episode reflecting on an unforgettable year through the eyes and voices of those at the sharp-end of the Agri-Turf industry.We hear about the role of trade associations to provide independent companies with information and 'dos and donts'. There are accounts by dealers of the measures they had to take to drive business remotely and by manufacturers on promoting products.There views on the future of shows, of the lack of diversity in the industry, of issues when dealers change franchises, of robotic mowers coming-of-age and of the demise of a legendary...2020-12-2135 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 18 with Robin Lennie, retiring MD of Stihl GBAfter a career spanning 30 years at Stihl GB, the last 14 years as managing director, Robin Lennie retires on 31 December. In the penultimate Inside Agri-Turf episode of 2020, he talks openly and frankly to Chris Biddle about the chemistry between himself and Peter Baker, the MD when he joined the company in 1990 as Finance Director, who needed 'fag-packet' projections rather than complicated financial modelling.He also talks about the challenges of developing friendships amongst dealers within a commercial relationship, particularly when trading terms had to be changed.For all its size, Stihl is a modest...2020-12-1430 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 17 Unpicking 2020 season with Keith Christian and Martin RickatsonChris Biddle is joined this week by Keith Christian, Director of BAGMA (British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association) and leading agricultural journalist Martin Rickatson to reflect on the 2020 season for the Agri-Turf industry - and provide some thoughts on the months ahead.The episode was recorded in the midst of the final Brexit talks to decide on the terms of the UK's withdrawal agreement from the EU which comes into force on 31 December 2020. With much of the detail yet to be agreed there is a likelihood that Britain may leave without an agreement.So much...2020-12-0735 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 14: Dealer Talk. The ATV business with Anthony DeaconBedfordshire ATV specialist, MKM Agriculture, are unusual in being able to offer the four leading Japanese ATV brands under one roof.Managing Director Anthony tells Chris Biddle how the company gradually built up a 'full house' of the franchises, and how they fit well together.He also discusses the importance of operator training and the benefit of being a qualified EASI (European ATV Safety Institute) instructor.MKM opened a second branch in Suffolk last year and says that winning the ATV Dealer of the Year award organised by Service Dealer last year provided...2020-11-1627 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 13 with Andrew Goodacre, CEO, British Independent Retailers AssociationChris Biddle is joined by Andrew Goodacre, Chief Executive of the British Independent Retailers Association (bira) for an an episode recorded the day that England entered a second national lockdown of 2020, a decision which Andrew describes as his greatest disappointment of the year to-date.With so many 'bricks and mortar' retailers having to close for 3 months during the first lockdown, but with a partial recovery underway, he says that many independent retailers were banking on making up lost ground in the run-up to Christmas. "This will mean that many small businesses will have had to close for...2020-11-0933 minINSIDE AGRI-TURFEpisode 12 David Hart, md of Kubota UK on shuffling the dealer packA highly topical conversation with David Hart, MD of Kubota UK recorded on a day when two of Kubota's long standing dealers agreed on an uncoupling of key franchises in order to provide greater clarity and focus for their companies in the future.It was a complex and complicated decision agreed between two respected multi-branch dealers.Elsewhere in a wide-ranging interview, David talks about:(09:40) Difference between manufacturers and dealers(15:38) Challenges for dealers of changing major franchises(21:14) The story behind the uncoupling of franchises by two main dealers(31:40...2020-11-0246 min