Time - the untapped resource, with Michael Blanche

In the latest episode of Blether Together, kindly supported by The NFU Mutual Charitable Trust, host Sarah Stephen talks with Michael Blanche on his journey to becoming a first-generation farmer, and how he stayed tenacious and resilient through the knock-backs and challenges.

It all started in 2003 when Michael went to buy ten sheep but returned with 50, purchased on a credit card so in his own words he actually started with nothing. Over the years he rented 150 acres over seven holdings, all on short-term lets, whilst trying to secure his own tenancy. After seven attempts, this was finally possible and now farms at Culteuchar, near Forgandenny in Perthshire.

Sarah asks Michael how he stayed motivated to continue with his dream and what advice he has for those starting up. They discuss imposter syndrome and how he overcame it, and, like many in farming, monetary constraints continue to be the biggest worry he faces.

And of course, we couldn’t not touch on his own podcast, The Pasture Pod, which was inspired by Will Evans from Rock and Roll Farming, and has been a constant source of positive relief from the hardship that can be faced in farming.

More recently, he has recorded a documentary podcast series focused on time management, supported by the Frank Parkinson Agricultural Trust. During his conversations with farmers, crofters, researchers and advisors, he investigates how to make the most of the 12 seasons he has left before retirement, and what we can all do to meet the 80-20 rule - you can get 80% of the benefits from 20% of the input. Michael explains “we think hard work is the answer, and for many it may be, but for lots, it is not. You might be doing things right, but are we doing the right things?”

Full of laughs and meaningful insights, the episode finishes off with Michael describing why he supports Farmstrong Scotland and believes in the benefits of connecting with other people. He tells us about his daily meditation, and how a simple list of tasks can help him focus on what is important.

Take 30-minutes out from your day to sit back and listen to our next podcast, or why not tune in while you work away…there is even a terrible attempt at an Australian accent and a confession about the very first podcast Michael recorded!

And to enjoy Michael’s full time management series, click here.

Farmstrong Scotland is an initiative to help farmers, crofters and their families to cope with the ups and downs of farming and crofting by sharing things they can do to look after themselves and the people in their business. It is a peer-to-peer led programme, driven by scientific information and real-life stories, so together we can share, learn and support our wellbeing - visit the website to find out more.

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