Published by Ewan Campbell with co-host Stephen Brunton
Science
Nature
From paddock to podcast, EcoFarm Aotearoa showcases Ewan Campbell, a respected name in NZ farming, known for turning good science into better practice. With co-host Stephen Brunton, Ewan unpacks his audiobook and the big issues: nitrate and water quality, soil biology, mineral balance, genetics, pasture growth, animal health, and profitability. Real stories, clear takeaways—ready for the ute, cowshed, or tractor. Notes & links: efa.nz
China is changing the way it farms, and the scale of what they're achieving is staggering. In this episode: After returning from an agricultural study trip to China, Gavin Fisher shares what surprised him most: climate-controlled dairy barns, advanced monitoring technology, efficient nutrient recycling, and a national focus on producing premium-quality food rather than simply maximizing output. The conversation explores how China has transformed previously unproductive land into highly efficient farming systems while investing heavily in research, innovation and long-term thinking. It also raises an important question for New Zealand: are we doing enough to stay competitive in the global food market? From massive solar farms and electric vehicles to organic dairy production and export markets, Gavin shares firsthand insights into what he witnessed on the ground and what lessons New Zealand farmers can take from China's rapid agricultural development. Gavin Fisher's agricultural study trip through China Inside a 200,000-cow dairy operation Why China is prioritizing food quality over quantity Climate-controlled farming and advanced technology Organic dairy and growing global demand Turning desert land into productive agriculture Lessons New Zealand can learn from China's innovation Why long-term thinking is shaping the future of farming If you're interested in regenerative agriculture, farming innovation, global food production and the future of New Zealand farming, this episode is packed with insights you won't hear in mainstream discussions. Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1 "Inspired" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
A new New Zealand study has linked nitrate levels in drinking water to premature births, but does that tell the whole story? In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, we unpack the latest media reports surrounding nitrates and explore what they may be overlooking. Campbell questions why the conversation always seems to stop at identifying the problem, rather than addressing the biological systems that can solve it. The discussion covers how healthy soils naturally cycle nitrogen, why cyanobacteria are central to this process, and how improving soil biology can reduce nitrate leaching while increasing farm profitability. We also dive into the importance of mineral balance, the relationship between nickel, selenium, copper and zinc, and why testing and measuring should replace assumptions. Rather than simply monitoring environmental issues, this episode looks at practical, evidence-based ways farmers can restore healthier soils, cleaner water and more resilient farming systems. We Discuss: The latest nitrate and drinking water research Why correlation isn't the same as causation How healthy soil biology reduces nitrate leaching The role of cyanobacteria in nitrogen cycling Why test and measure beats guesswork Mineral interactions: nickel, selenium, copper & zinc Improving livestock nutrition naturally Why profitability and environmental outcomes can improve together Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen heads to the West Coast for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Reefton coal mine to see firsthand how mining by-products are transformed into valuable inputs for regenerative farming. Joined by the mine team, Stephen follows the journey from freshly mined coal through the wash plant, stockpiles, rehabilitation areas, and fertilizer blending operation, uncovering the geology, engineering, and innovation behind products now being used on farms across New Zealand. The tour highlights how materials once considered waste are now being repurposed into EcoFarm soil products, while also showcasing mine restoration, environmental management, and the people driving practical solutions on the ground. Through the EFA lens, this episode explores the intersection of mining, soil biology, and agriculture, demonstrating how collaboration between industries can unlock new opportunities for farmers. We discuss: A full behind-the-scenes tour of the Reefton coal mine How coal is processed, washed, and prepared for different industries The surprising journey from mine by-products to EcoFarm fertilizers Soluble silica, humates, papa rock, and mineral blending Mine rehabilitation and restoring land after extraction How EcoFarm products are mixed and shipped around New Zealand The people, machinery, and innovation behind one of New Zealand's most unique farming partnerships Purchase Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan are joined by Jimmy, a lifelong West Coast coal mining expert, to explore the surprising connections between geology, mining, soil health, and modern agriculture. What begins as a conversation about coal quickly expands into the history of New Zealand's geology, the science behind different coal types, mine rehabilitation, and how mining by-products are helping improve soil function and farm productivity. Drawing on decades of experience in the mining industry, Jimmy shares insights into how coal is formed, processed, and used far beyond energy production, while also challenging common perceptions around environmental impact, land restoration, and the future of New Zealand's mineral resources. Through the EFA lens, this episode examines how overlooked natural resources, practical problem-solving, and independent thinking can create opportunities for both farming and industry. We discuss: • How coal is formed and why different coal types have different uses • Mine rehabilitation and restoring land back to productive use • The surprising role of coal by-products in improving soil health • Clean coal, energy efficiency, and common misconceptions about mining • Why soluble silica and coal humates are becoming valuable farm inputs • The future of New Zealand's mining industry and primary sector • What farming and mining can learn from each other Purchase Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan are joined by Robin Claire, host of Cultivated Audio, for a fascinating conversation exploring soil health, regenerative agriculture, and the hidden forces shaping the future of farming. What begins as a discussion around farming systems and mineral balancing expands into a deeper exploration of soil biology, electrical conductivity, microbial life, livestock health, and the complex relationships connecting soil, plants, animals, and people. Drawing on decades of hands-on farming experience, Ewan shares the observations and discoveries that led him to investigate the electrical properties of soil and how minerals, biology, and natural systems work together to drive productivity, resilience, and ecosystem health. Through the EFA lens, this episode challenges conventional agricultural thinking and highlights the importance of observation, curiosity, and farmer-led innovation in building healthier farms and food systems. We discuss: • The hidden electrical activity within healthy soils • How minerals influence plant, animal, and human health • The role of cyanobacteria, microbes, and biology in regenerative farming • Why observation and on-farm experimentation matter • Building resilient farming systems that work with nature Guest: Robin Claire Host of Cultivated Audio Website: https://cultivatedaudio.com/ Listen to Cultivated Audio: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ydCU8Rh44ZcSXz0tfZgOz?si=ada90fb16e5a4cd0 Purchase Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery :https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan unpack the controversy surrounding a proposed $3 billion lignite-to-fertiliser plant in Southland, New Zealand, and ask a bigger question: why are we investing billions into synthetic nitrogen production when healthy soils already produce nitrogen naturally? What begins as a discussion around fertiliser security and global supply chains quickly becomes a deep dive into soil biology, carbon, trace minerals, and the hidden systems that drive productive farming. Through the EFA lens, the conversation explores how rebuilding soil biology through trace minerals, carbon growth, and biological function can reduce fertiliser dependence while improving profitability, animal health, environmental outcomes, and food quality. The episode challenges modern agriculture’s reliance on synthetic inputs and argues that many farmers may already have the solution beneath their feet. We discuss: • Why healthy soil biology naturally fixes nitrogen• The difference between synthetic and biologically fixed nitrogen• How trace minerals influence productivity and animal health• Why increasing soil carbon improves profitability and resilience• How farmers can reduce dependency through better soil management Our FREE E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan explore the forces shaping modern agriculture and ask a challenging question: are farmers really in control of their own industry? From farm plans and environmental compliance to organic markets, profitability, carbon, and industry influence, the conversation examines how farmers can use testing, observation, and real-world results to make better decisions for their businesses and their land. Drawing on decades of farming experience, Ewan argues that healthy soils, lower inputs, and farmer-led innovation are creating opportunities that many conventional systems continue to overlook. Through the EFA lens, this episode challenges accepted narratives around farming, regulation, productivity, and sustainability while highlighting the importance of independent thinking and measurable outcomes. We discuss: • Who really influences the direction of modern agriculture• Why testing and measurable outcomes matter more than assumptions• The profitability of organic and low-input farming systems• Farm plans, regulation, and farmer autonomy• Building resilient businesses through independent thinking and innovation 60 Minutes Video: https://youtu.be/3GDm3Y9wAuA?si=GccuvHuyAhRruUgg Guardian Rocks Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E8aChTA_HM&t=3s Purchase Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan explore one of the most overlooked yet important drivers of soil health: cyanobacteria. What starts as a discussion around regenerative farming, cover crops, and soil carbon quickly expands into a deep dive on soil biology, nutrient cycling, trace minerals, plant health, animal health, and the hidden processes that build productive farming systems from the ground up. Drawing on decades of on-farm observation and testing, Ewan explains why cyanobacteria may be the foundation of healthy soils, how they contribute to carbon sequestration, nutrient availability, and biological function, and why many current farming practices may be working against them. Through the EFA lens, this episode challenges conventional approaches to soil management and highlights the importance of understanding biological systems before reaching for costly inputs and interventions. We discuss: • Why cyanobacteria are the foundation of healthy soil ecosystems• The relationship between soil biology, carbon, and nutrient cycling• Cover crops, regenerative farming, and what's often being overlooked• How trace minerals influence plant, animal, and soil health• Building productive farming systems by fixing the soil first
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan explore the changing landscape of New Zealand agriculture, from the traditions of Gypsy Week and share milking to the growing pressures facing modern farmers. The conversation dives into farm profitability, organic opportunities, soil health, environmental compliance, and the importance of producing high-quality food for premium markets. Ewan challenges conventional agricultural thinking and shares why healthier soils, stronger biological systems, and farmer-led innovation could be the key to building a more resilient future. Through the EFA lens, this episode examines how farmers can regain control of their businesses by focusing on productivity, profitability, and environmental outcomes that are measured through real-world results rather than assumptions. We discuss: • The history of Gypsy Week and how farming has changed over time • Why rising input costs are squeezing farm profitability • The opportunities emerging in organic and premium food markets • How soil health impacts productivity, profitability, and the environment • Taking control through testing, observation, and farmer-led decision making Purchase Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan sit down with John Carapiet from GE Free New Zealand to unpack the growing debate around genetic engineering, GMO regulation, and the future of farming in New Zealand. What begins as a discussion around the government’s proposed Gene Technology Bill and the new Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Amendment Bill quickly expands into a much bigger conversation about food sovereignty, corporate influence, farmer responsibility, environmental contamination, and the long-term future of agriculture. Through the EFA lens, the conversation explores whether New Zealand risks losing one of its greatest advantages — its GE-free food reputation — in pursuit of patented technologies and synthetic solutions. The discussion dives into soil biology, export markets, consumer trust, liability, glyphosate, animal welfare, and the growing tension between industrial agriculture and regenerative farming systems. The episode challenges the idea that more technology automatically equals better outcomes and asks a deeper question: are we solving the root causes of agricultural problems, or creating new ones? We discuss: • The proposed Gene Technology and HASNO amendment bills• Why New Zealand’s GE-free status matters globally• The difference between GMO, GE, and gene editing• Liability risks for farmers and contamination concerns• How patents and corporate interests influence agriculture• The connection between soil health, food quality, and human health• Why consumers still demand non-GMO food• The future of regenerative farming in New Zealand Our FREE E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen, Ewan, and special guest Rensha Bouwer unpack the growing disconnect between food production, food quality, and the systems that sit between farmers and consumers. What begins as a conversation around award-winning pies, artisan cheese, and sourcing quality ingredients quickly reveals a much deeper issue: many of the best food producers and farmers are trapped inside commodity systems that fail to reward quality, animal welfare, and true nutritional value. Through the EFA lens, the discussion shifts toward reconnecting farming, food, and community. By focusing on healthy soils, thriving animals, low-stress handling, and direct relationships between producers and consumers, farmers can create premium products that stand apart from conventional systems. The episode explores how regenerative farming, local processing, and independent trade could reshape the future of food while reducing dependence on centralised industries and input-heavy agriculture. We discuss: • Why healthy soil and healthy animals create better quality food• How commodity systems hide the value of premium produce• The impact of stress and transport on meat quality• Why local food systems and direct trade matter• The challenges chefs face sourcing truly high-quality ingredients• How regenerative farming can improve both nutrition and profitability Our FREE E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan unpack the hidden potential within our soils and challenge the conventional approach to fertility, pH, and input-heavy farming. What begins as a discussion on soil chemistry reveals a deeper issue: farmers are often managing only what’s immediately available, rather than unlocking the vast reserves already present in the soil. Through the EFA lens, the conversation shifts toward soil as a living, self-regulating system. By activating biology, increasing carbon, and removing limiting factors, farmers can convert locked-up minerals into plant-available nutrients, naturally balance soil function, and reduce reliance on expensive synthetic inputs, leading to more profitable and resilient farming systems. We discuss: • Why pH alone doesn’t tell the full story• The gap between available nutrients and total soil potential• How biology unlocks minerals like calcium• The role of carbon and organic matter in soil function• Reducing input costs by working with natural processes 🎧 Music Credit: Music: Exciting Trailer by Kevin MacLeodSource: https://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/music.html
An EcoFarmer’s Discovery Chapter 28: Reality Check Thank you for listening to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: The Companion Podcast, this is the final Ewan Campbell’s journey throughout the book. In this episode, Stephen Brunton and Ewan unpack the final chapter of the book, Chapter 28: Reality Check, bringing the series to a grounded and thought-provoking close. This conversation steps back from theory and dives into the practical realities of farming, challenging listeners to rethink assumptions, question systems, and take ownership of their results. Ewan emphasises the critical importance of benchmarking as a starting point for any farming system, highlighting how data collection across soil, water, and herbage provides not only a pathway for improvement, but also protection against misinformation, poor advice, and bureaucratic pressure. Without a clear baseline, progress becomes impossible to measure, and claims—whether from farmers or regulators—lack real substance. The discussion explores the barriers to adopting biological and regenerative practices, with a strong focus on mindset, education, and the willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. Ewan shares insights into how small, consistent changes—guided by real data—can lead to measurable improvements in productivity, environmental outcomes, and farm resilience over time. A key theme throughout the episode is the importance of working with nature rather than against it. From protecting soil biology to reducing reliance on sprays and external inputs, Ewan reinforces that long-term success comes from understanding natural systems and allowing them to function as intended. The episode also touches on the broader challenges facing modern agriculture, including industry narratives, policy pressures, and the influence of outdated thinking. Through honest reflections and practical examples, this final chapter encourages farmers to think independently, embrace learning, and move forward with confidence. At its core, this is a “reality check” not just for farming systems, but for the way we think about progress, responsibility, and success in agriculture. It’s a powerful conclusion that ties together the entire journey, leaving listeners with both clarity and motivation for what comes next. We discuss: • Why benchmarking and data collection are essential before making changes• How soil, water, and herbage testing guide better decision-making• The role of data in protecting farmers from poor advice and bureaucracy• Common mental barriers to adopting regenerative practices• Why protecting soil biology is key to long-term farm success• The importance of working with nature instead of against it• How independent thinking can drive better outcomes on-farm Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – www.efa.nzLink to our free ebook!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan unpack the growing tension between water quality, farm profitability, and the long-standing reliance on synthetic inputs. What starts as a conversation about environmental pressure quickly reveals a deeper issue, farm systems that are quietly depleting their own soil capital over time. Through real on-farm numbers and practical examples, Ewan breaks down how decades of nitrogen use have led to a steady loss of organic carbon, reducing the soil’s natural ability to hold nutrients and water. The result? Farmers aren’t just buying fertiliser, they’re replacing what their soil used to provide for free. Looking through the EFA lens, the discussion shifts toward rebuilding soil function through biology, carbon, and mineral balance. By increasing organic matter and restoring natural nutrient cycles, farmers can reduce input costs, improve production, and take back control of their systems, while also addressing environmental concerns like water quality. This episode highlights a powerful opportunity: by changing the system, farmers can move from constantly spending on inputs to actually rebuilding long-term value in their soil. We discuss: • The link between water quality issues and farm profitability• How decades of nitrogen use have depleted soil carbon• The hidden financial loss of declining soil organic matter• Why synthetic fertiliser replaces, rather than builds, fertility• The impact of low dry matter and “watery” feed on production Our FREE E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
An EcoFarmer’s Discovery Chapter 27: Environmental Issues Welcome to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: The Companion Podcast , where every Friday we dive deep into one chapter of Ewan Campbell’s journey. In this episode, Stephen Brunton and Ewan unpack Chapter 27: Environmental Issues , bringing the series to a powerful and challenging close. The conversation centres around one of the biggest topics in modern agriculture, water quality, and explores how soil health, carbon, and biology play a critical role in filtering nutrients, reducing runoff, and restoring natural balance. Ewan shares insights into how increasing soil carbon can lock up excess nitrogen, preventing it from entering waterways, while also highlighting the importance of silica and microbial life in maintaining clean, functional water systems. The discussion challenges common narratives around farming’s impact on the environment, suggesting that many of today’s issues are not simply the result of farming itself, but of systems that lack the biological and mineral balance needed to function properly. The episode also dives into the broader system, from outdated scientific paradigms and industry structures, to the role of policy, education, and accountability in shaping outcomes. Through practical examples and on-farm experience, Ewan explains how improving soil health can directly improve water quality, animal performance, and public health, all while reducing reliance on external inputs. At its core, this chapter ties everything together, reinforcing the idea that true environmental solutions don’t come from regulation alone, but from understanding and working with the natural systems already in place. It’s a confronting but empowering conversation, pointing toward a future where farms can be both highly productive and environmentally regenerative. We discuss: • How soil carbon helps reduce nitrate leaching and improve water quality• The role of biology and silica in natural water filtration systems• Why many water quality issues stem from imbalanced soil systems• The connection between soil health, productivity, and public health• How outdated thinking and systems can limit real progress• Why working with nature offers long-term solutions over regulation Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – www.efa.nzLink to our free ebook!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
An EcoFarmer’s Discovery Chapter 26: The Last Chapter? Welcome to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: The Companion Podcast , where every Friday we dive deep into one chapter of Ewan Campbell’s journey. In this episode, Stephen Brunton and Ewan unpack Chapter 26: The Last Chapter? , stepping into one of the most challenging and thought-provoking ideas in the entire series. The conversation explores the concept of unseen influences on the farm, from vibrational residues left behind by past chemical use to the role of electromagnetic frequencies in shaping soil, plant, animal, and even human performance. Ewan shares powerful on-farm experiences that challenge conventional thinking, suggesting that soil may hold more than just nutrients, it may also store memory. From long-banned chemicals like DDT still influencing outcomes decades later, to the impact of electrical systems, power lines, and modern technology, the discussion reveals how these hidden factors can affect productivity, animal behaviour, and overall farm health in ways that are often overlooked. The episode also dives into practical approaches for addressing these challenges, including the role of fungal biology in “cleaning” soil systems, and how certain natural materials can help mitigate negative frequencies. Through a mix of observation, experimentation, and open-minded thinking, Ewan explains how farmers can begin to restore balance and regain control, even in environments impacted by long-term chemical and energy inputs. We discuss: • What “vibrational residues” are and how they may impact farms• How soil can hold the memory of past chemical use• The long-term effects of inputs like DDT beyond standard testing• The influence of electromagnetic frequencies on living systems• How fungal biology can help restore and rebalance soil• Practical ways to reduce unseen stressors and improve resilience Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – www.efa.nzLink to our free ebook!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan dive into the growing fuel and fertiliser crisis and what it really means for modern farming. As costs rise and pressure builds, the conversation uncovers a deeper issue: the heavy reliance on nitrogen fertiliser as an energy product, leaving farmers exposed to global oil markets. What seems like a pricing problem quickly reveals itself as a system-wide challenge impacting profitability, soil health, and long-term resilience. Through the EFA lens, Ewan explains how shifting focus to soil biology, carbon, and mineral balance can reduce input dependency and rebuild control at the farm level. From producing nitrogen naturally within the soil to questioning decades of conventional practice, the episode highlights a clear opportunity—those willing to rethink their system can lower costs, improve performance, and future-proof their farms. We discuss: • Why fertiliser prices are tied directly to the fuel crisis• How nitrogen functions as “energy in a bag”• The lack of correlation between fertiliser use and profit• How soil biology can replace synthetic inputs• Why many farmers feel stuck in the current system• The opportunity to reduce costs and regain control
In this episode, Ewan continues the open day out in the paddock, diving deeper into the hidden influences shaping soil, plant, and animal health. Set against a real-world farm backdrop, this part of the conversation explores some of the more complex and often overlooked factors in farming systems. From soil toxicity and mineral imbalances to the role of electromagnetic forces, Ewan demonstrates how unseen elements can impact everything from pasture growth to animal behaviour. Through hands-on demonstrations and farmer participation, the group is encouraged to question assumptions and observe how their environment is truly functioning. The discussion moves beyond conventional inputs, focusing instead on understanding the “why” behind what’s happening in the soil. Farmers share their own experiences, challenges, and early results as they begin transitioning toward more regenerative approaches, highlighting the importance of curiosity, experimentation, and keeping an open mind. This episode captures the reality of being in the early stages of change, where not everything is fully understood, but the willingness to observe, test, and adapt becomes the most valuable tool on farm. We discuss: • How soil toxicity and past management practices continue to influence current systems• Demonstrations of muscle testing and farmer observations in the field• The potential impact of electromagnetic forces on soil, plants, and animals• Why mineral balance and deficiencies play a critical role in pasture performance• Real farmer experiences transitioning away from conventional practices• The importance of observation, skepticism, and open-minded learning• Early-stage insights into improving soil biology and long-term farm resilience Our FREE E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
In this episode, Stephen and Ewan take us directly onto the farm for a live open day, where theory meets reality and farmers get to see regenerative principles in action. Set in a hands-on, real-world environment, the conversation centres around what it actually looks like to transition from conventional thinking to a system that works with nature. As Ewan walks through the farm, he shares practical insights into soil health, pasture performance, and animal wellbeing. All grounded in observation, testing, and experience. The open day creates space for discussion, questions, and shared learning, highlighting how powerful it can be when farmers step outside the textbook and start trusting what they see on their own land. From pasture diversity and mineral balance to animal behaviour and system resilience, this episode captures the importance of seeing the system as a whole. More than just a farm walk, this is a mindset shift in motion, where curiosity replaces certainty, and real progress comes from understanding how everything connects. We discuss: • What regenerative farming looks like in a real on-farm setting• How soil health translates into pasture and animal performance• The importance of observation and asking better questions• Why farm systems must be understood as a whole• Lessons and insights shared during the open day• How mindset shifts unlock real change on farm Our FREE E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
An EcoFarmer’s Discovery Chapter 25: Fits Together Welcome to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: The Companion Podcast , where every Friday we dive deep into one chapter of Ewan Campbell’s journey. In this episode, Stephen Brunton and Ewan unpack Chapter 25: Fits Together , exploring the powerful idea that true abundance in farming comes from understanding and working with the natural systems already in place. The conversation centres around a key principle: when the right conditions are created, nature does the heavy lifting. From extraordinary examples of naturally fertile soils to the role of biology, minerals, and even electromagnetic forces, this episode reveals how all the pieces of the puzzle connect to unlock productivity and resilience on farm. Ewan shares insights from decades of experience, explaining how soil health is built through observation, testing, and incremental adjustments, not quick fixes. From identifying limiting factors like trace element deficiencies, to reintroducing biology and allowing systems to function as intended, farmers can begin to see dramatic improvements in pasture performance, animal health, and long-term sustainability. The discussion also dives into the deeper connections between soil, plant, animal, and human health, highlighting how factors like environment, nutrition, and even electrical signals influence outcomes in ways we’re only beginning to understand. At its core, this chapter is about stepping back, seeing the bigger picture, and realising that everything on the farm is interconnected. We discuss: • What “abundance” really looks like in natural systems• How soil minerals, biology, and energy systems work together• The importance of testing, observation, and adapting over time• How environmental signals influence plant and animal performance• Why many modern practices limit true soil potential• The value of learning from nature, not fighting it Hosted by: Stephen Brunton & Ewan Campbell Powered by: EcoFarm Aotearoa – www.efa.nz Link to our free ebook! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1
