Profitable Farmer

At just two years old, Terry Tran fled Vietnam by boat with his parents, was rescued after days lost at sea, and spent months on a Malaysian refugee island. It was there, on Christmas Eve, that a storm claimed his father’s life, leaving his 21-year-old mother widowed with a toddler to raise.    From those humble beginnings, Terry has built a life of financial freedom, not through shortcuts but through patience, persistence and following a clear process. Along the way, he was also shaped by the kindness of others, a reminder that generosity can change lives.    In this conversation, Terry shares how he started from almost nothing, the mistakes he made chasing quick wins, and the principles he now follows to protect and grow wealth. He talks about the role of risk management and how the mindset farmers use to work through seasons is the same mindset needed to succeed as an investor.    We also explore Terry’s view on the global share markets. He explains why US-China tensions and trade tariffs have left markets

In recent years grain growers nationally have enjoyed an extended period of strong prices and favourable market conditions.  According to grain industry authority, Brett Stevenson, Managing Director of Market Check, this may well be all about to change.  Of the back of last month’s Australian Grains Industry Conference (AGIC), I invite Brett to once again join me to give us his expert insights to the new headwinds Aussie grain growers now face in coming years.  As grain prices face downward pressure, Brett Stevenson offers invaluable insight on navigating a challenging global market – it seems clear the good times we have enjoyed may now not last forever.   With over 30 years of industry-leading experience, Brett dives into the challenges of navigating a low-price environment and offers advice on risk management, grain marketing strategies, and why the next few years may likely be tougher than many expect.  In this episode, we explore:  the impact of geopolitical tensions and changing international supply dy

From growing up on a dairy farm in western Victoria with 12 siblings to the frontlines of one of the toughest fights in medical research, Sam McGuane’s story is one of resilience, service, and hope. As the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of The Brain Cancer Centre, and a key leader behind Carrie’s Beanies for Brain Cancer, Sam is on a mission to transform the future of brain cancer research.  In this heartfelt episode, Sam opens up about how the values of gratitude, service, and hard work, ingrained in him growing up on the farm, have shaped his approach to both business and charity. These lessons, learned early in life, now fuel his leadership as he works to change the future of brain cancer research.  Brain cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children in Australia, with survival rates virtually unchanged for decades. Sam is determined to change that. He’s building a model that brings researchers together, fosters collaboration, and supports breakthroughs in treatment. The result?

When you wear as many hats as our farming families do, time is one thing you never have enough of.    From the kitchen table to the paddock, we’re constantly making decisions, solving problems, and figuring out how to do more with less. What if there was a way to take some of that pressure off, without handing over the reins?    In this episode, I sit down with Dimity Smith, agri-business innovator, event leader, and one of the most refreshingly practical minds when it comes to tech in agriculture. Dimity runs tailored AI training sessions for farming families and small ag teams, helping them get started with tools like ChatGPT and put them to work in your business.     Together with Sam Johnsson, we dive into how AI is already helping farmers:  Draft job ads, safety procedures, and strategic plans,  Make grant writing quicker and less painful,  and even help with farm system reviews, one prompt at a time.     But more than the tools, this is about mindset. Dimity reminds us: AI is your co-pilot, not yo

I really values the constructs that: ‘you cannot solve the problem you have created in the environment in which you created it’… and ‘many minds make for smarter work’. What could you see more clearly if you took time with key decision-makers away from your farm? How many more options and insights might you access if you more actively called on the collective wisdom of other high-performing farm owners? In this episode, Sam Johnsson speaks with FOA coaches Cassandra Kath, Elle Webb and Sam Pincott to unpack the powerful conversations and insights to come from our latest client conference, our ‘Organise Infrastructure’ Deep Dive. With more than 550 farm owners in the room, the focus was clear: how to optimise your investment in infrastructure, equipment and technologies in order to drive efficiency, productivity and farm performance. We all have a long-list of items we’d like to invest in to move our farm’s forward. At the same time there are a host of emerging technologies we need to be considering to help

What if the future isn’t something to fear but something we can prepare for, shape, and lead into with confidence?  For Simon Kuestenmacher, understanding what’s ahead isn’t guesswork. It’s grounded in data, demography and deep thinking. As co-founder of The Demographics Group, Simon helps leaders across the country make sense of the big forces shaping our communities, our economies and our businesses. In this conversation, he brings that lens directly to farming.  This is a full and generous exchange with someone who not only understands the numbers but deeply respects the people behind them. Simon doesn’t just talk about trends, he speaks to what they mean for farm owners, for regional Australia and for the next generation of workers we are all learning to lead.  And his message is simple. The world is changing fast, but if you are in farming, you are in the right place. The question is - are you setting your business and your people up to thrive in what comes next?  Specifically during this episode we expl

What if we treated safety not as a box to tick, but as a culture to lead?    For Rebecca Fing, this isn’t a theoretical question — it’s the heart of her life’s work. From her base in Goondiwindi, Rebecca and her team at House Paddock Training & Consulting have spent two decades helping farm families lift their game in HR, business strategy, and importantly — work health and safety.    This episode is a full-bodied conversation with someone who’s been on over 600 farms and seen it all. Rebecca doesn’t just talk compliance — she talks culture. She doesn’t just talk paperwork — she talks people.    And the urgency is real. Agriculture employs just 3% of Australia’s workforce, yet accounts for 30% of all workplace fatalities. Even more sobering — 75% of those deaths involve machinery. These aren’t just numbers. They’re reminders that safety isn’t something we can afford to “get to later.” Because what’s at stake is far too important.    In a world where the urgent often crowds out the important, she makes a p

  Every great innovation starts with a question — Could this be done better?    For Wayne Perkins, that question came in a wool shed, with a busted back, and a view of shearing that hadn’t changed in a century. He wasn’t looking to build a business. He was looking to fix a problem.    And in true agri-entrepreneur fashion, what followed was part invention, part persistence — and one heck of a story.    In this episode, we shine a light on the doers. The tinkerers. The farm-based problem-solvers who aren’t waiting for permission — they’re out there building something better.    Wayne Perkins is the founder of Perkinz, and the creator of the CrutchMaster and ShearMaster — two breakthrough systems in sheep handling that have become a lifeline for farmers and shearers across Australia and New Zealand. Backed by a background in shearing and solid grounding in farming, Wayne's story is a raw and real account of what it takes to create, adapt, and endure.    We explore:  Why practical farmer feedback — not engineer

Succession isn’t just a plan on paper — it’s a living, breathing conversation about legacy, leadership, and what we’re really passing on. And when it’s done well, it can strengthen not just the business, but the family behind it.  This episode is a testament to that. Rob and Ainsley McArthur aren’t just managing a successful beef operation in central Queensland — they’re guiding a generational transition with intention, structure, and a whole lot of heart. Alongside their six children, they’ve created a culture of contribution, where ownership and responsibility are shared from the ground up. In this conversation, I am joined by the McArthur’s and their Platinum Mastermind coach Sam Pincott. Together we dive into the nuts and bolts of a family business that’s thriving because it’s been built on purpose and participation. Here’s what we explore:  How Rob and Ainsley stepped into leadership early and chose to rewrite the script on what succession could look like  Why they treat their kids as stakeholders

Now and then, you get the chance to pause, look back, and really take stock. And when that moment rolls around, it can be quietly powerful.    That’s exactly what this episode is. A milestone. A moment. A celebration.    This year marks 10 years of Farm Owners Academy, and I wanted to sit down with two people who’ve been there from the start — FOA founder Greg Johnson and our CEO Sam Johnson — and reflect not just on where we’ve come from, but where we’re going.    In this one, we unpack the heart behind FOA, the thinking that shaped the Top Producers Program, and the impact it’s had on farming families across Australia and New Zealand.    But more than that, we talk about what truly sets top producers apart — and why, now more than ever, mindset, business acumen, and strategic focus are the critical tools for leading through uncertainty.    Because right now, volatility is the new normal.    Climate, markets, costs — they’re all shifting. And that means farming families need a stronger compass and clearer to

The markets are rattled. The headlines are loud. And for farmers trying to plan ahead, it’s starting to feel a bit like trying to build a fence in shifting sand. That’s exactly why, in this episode of Profitable Farmer, I’ve invited back our trusted investment specialist, Terry Tran from Freedom Trader - because when the world gets noisy, Terry brings sharp thinking and clear-eyed strategy.   At present, we’re diving deep into one of the biggest economic curveballs we've seen in years — the Trump-imposed US tariffs. This conversation is as timely as it is important. We explore: What this means for Australia & NZ, for agriculture, and for the way we make decisions in uncertain times What these tariffs actually are, and how they were calculated The ripple effects on global trade, inflation, interest rates — and yes, our ag exports. Where the risks lie… and where the opportunities might just be hiding in plain sight. Smart, proactive strategies to help you safeguard your business and potentially thrive o

Let’s be honest - running a farm can feel like a never-ending list of things to do. The sun comes up, and we’re off… chasing the day, solving problems, making it all happen. But here’s the question we’re leaning into on this episode: What if the biggest breakthrough for your business isn’t out there in the paddock… but in here, inside you?  At Farm Owners Academy, we’ve learned time and again that real transformation - the kind that sticks - starts with mindset. When farmers turn the focus inward and start doing the inner work, everything shifts. And this episode of Profitable Farmer is a powerful reflection of just that.  We’re unpacking the theme: “Work harder on yourself than you do on your business.” It's a simple idea, but it cuts deep. And it’s at the very heart of what made our recent Tune In, Deep Dive event so special. Over 500 farmers joined us to dive into the mindset, wellbeing, and emotional intelligence tools that don’t just improve your business - they change your life.  I’m joined by two peopl

As we reset for 2025, many are feeling the weight of a brutal 2024. And to be completely honest — when you're staring down a decile one year, it’s hard to know where to start.     How do you budget with confidence? How do you front up to your bank when the season doesn’t go your way?    So here is the truth: waiting it out isn’t a strategy. Hope isn’t a business plan. And if you want to lead your business forward, now is the time to level up how you turn up.    In this episode, I am joined again by Jeff McDonald, Founder & Director of RLS Agribusiness.     Born and bred on an irrigation property in Loxton, SA, Jeff stepped off the farm and into finance, spending 20 years inside a major bank before founding Riverland Lending Services.     Today, Jeff leads one of the largest Agri-finance brokerages in the country. His team settles over $200 million in Agri finance each year, and through RLS Agribusiness, he advises farm businesses on everything from strategy and succession to governance and growth.    Jeff

Where have you learned leadership?  On the farm? In a day job? Inherited perhaps?  For most, NONE have learned the vital art and science of leadership.  It is a learned skill. One we can all commit to and master.   One we all need to be successful in life and business, and in succeeding in the pursuit of a family farm that can transcend generations…  It is a privilege to introduce Paul Ainsworth, Managing Partner of Lincoln Institute to you in this episode - one that speaks deeply to the heart of leadership, resilience, and the power of community.  Over 15 years, and after a decorated career in the Australian Army, Paul has helped shape leaders in the veterinary and agricultural industries. A graduate of the Australian Defence Force Academy and the Royal Military College Duntroon, Paul served as an Infantry Officer with international deployments across five foreign countries, culminating in a role as a military observer in the Middle East.   His leadership journey continued beyond the Army, first as the inaug

Running a farm comes with its fair share of challenges, and it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day. But some of the biggest opportunities for growth come from stepping outside our own operations, connecting with others, and learning from those facing similar challenges. Stronger businesses, smarter decisions, and a more resilient industry all start with farmers coming together and sharing knowledge.    This episode is all about the power of grower groups - why they matter, the impact they have, and why getting involved can be a game-changer for your farm and business.    I'm joined by Pippa Jones, who, alongside her husband, runs a mixed farm near Goondiwindi, QLD. Beyond the farm, Pippa has played a key role in the Macintyre Ag Alliance, helping to drive innovation and support for local farmers. She also works as an extension officer with NSW Local Land Services and represents the Northern NSW Drought and Innovation Hub. On top of that, she’s a 2024 Nuffield Scholar, exploring how carbon farming can be

If something happened to you tomorrow, would your farm keep running? Would your team know what to do? Would your business continue to operate, or does it all rely on you? It’s one of those things we don’t like to think about, but it’s critical — not just for succession planning or long-term growth, but for building a farm business that’s resilient and can operate without you. Today, I have the pleasure of sitting down with two of the best people to have this conversation with — Tim and Cheryl Freak. Tim and Cheryl have been with Farm Owners Academy from the very beginning. They’ve spent the last 10 years transforming their farm into a ‘Freedom Farm’ but also, travelling the country in the Farm Owners Academy caravan, working alongside farmers to help them create farm businesses that thrive without total dependence on them. This is a powerful conversation because it challenges the traditional mindset in farming — the idea that working harder is the only way forward. Tim and Cheryl show us the alternative w

Farming is a beautiful and rewarding way of life, but as we know, it comes with its fair share of risks—some that we prepare for and others that shake us to the core.     In this episode, we dive into an extraordinary story of resilience, resourcefulness, and reinvention as we sit down with Matt and Hayley Watson, first-generation farmers who built a thriving free-range egg business, faced devastating adversity, and emerged stronger on the other side.    Matt and Hayley share their incredible journey—from building their egg operation to 9,000 birds, navigating one of the worst droughts in Australian history, and tackling the challenges of growth, to the devastating biosecurity crisis that forced them to start over.     Through all the setbacks, their determination, values, and ability to ask “unreasonable questions” of good people helped them rebuild their business in under 12 months and turn it into a more efficient, scalable operation; an outstanding result and credit to them both.     This conversation is

Today, we’re diving into a cracker of a conversation with three of our incredible FOA business coaches—Rick Morris, Marina Gregor, and Jack Owen. They not only run their own successful farming enterprises but also help guide others in our FOA community to achieve remarkable results.    In this episode, we reflect on the wins, challenges, and insights that shaped 2024. You’ll hear how these coaches, through bold decisions and a deep understanding of their numbers, transformed their farms by simplifying operations and finding focus. They share firsthand how these changes have driven profitability and reduced overwhelm—an approach that’s reshaping the mindset around diversification in farming.    Before we get into it, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Jack, Marina, and Rick for joining me in this episode. Your dedication, commitment, and input to this community are deeply valued. The way you lead by example and share your stories with such authenticity is inspiring. It’s people like you who make this comm

As we near the end of another whirlwind year, it’s a chance to reflect, reset, and recharge. The festive season brings its own flurry of busyness, but before we all step into some well-deserved downtime, I wanted to bring you a conversation packed with insight and inspiration to help you wrap up 2024 with purpose and head into 2025 with clarity.    In this episode, I’m joined by Farm Owners Academy’s CEO, Sam Johnson. Together, we dive deep into the year that was — exploring the highlights, hurdles, and lessons learned across our farming community.     We unpack practical ways to stress-test your business model, navigate challenges like rising interest rates and tough seasons, and build resilience into your farm and family operations. We also delve into the important interplay between scale, gearing, and business model and how to assess your farm’s performance against several critical measures.    Sam shares a special reflection on his personal journey this year, showing how resilience isn’t just a business s

Today’s conversation is one of those deep dives into leadership, resilience, and navigating the complexities of life—whether that’s on the farm, in the boardroom, or out on the footy field.    Joining me is Cameron Schwab, a man who, at just 24, stepped into the CEO role of an elite AFL club, and over the years has learned not only what leadership demands of us but how it shapes us.    Cameron is the real deal—a thinker, a mentor, and someone who’s walked the path of success, failure, and reinvention. Now founder and CEO of designCEO, Cameron leverages his extensive leadership experience in professional sport and business to mentor and support CEOs, senior and emerging leaders, and their organisations across various industry sectors. You can find more information about Cameron and his offerings on his website here.    In this episode, we unpack what it takes to show up as a leader when the pressure’s on, how to navigate those “what am I doing here?” moments, and why the quiet, reflective times when no one’s w