The Retter family work very hard, and love to be busy, but appreciate the need for making the job as simple and enjoyable as possible.

We discuss the importance of putting ideas forward and trying them (and also admitting when perhaps your ideas don’t work sometimes!) and ensuring the business keeps moving forward for the future. An interesting discussion with a fun, family business where cows are at the forefront of everything!

In this episode of CMC Talks, Will and Karen travelled to the @carewinn near Tenby in Wales to speak to @abireader, mixed farmer and NFU Cymru President. An inspirational, thought-provoking and honest chat through Abi's life and achievements so far. Abi has an incredible way of encouraging and bringing everyone along with her to undertake unique initiatives to connect young people and the general public to farming. 'Cows on Tour' features some funny stories, some hard-hitting stories and you cannot fail to be uplifted and motivated by Abi's passion and determination to get farmers voices heard by those that need to hear it most.

We so appreciate Abi giving up her precious time to be with us and wish her every success with the farm and her Presidency, we cannot wait to see what the future holds!

Join our one and only Trevor Bedford and Mark Gulley for an entertaining and uplifting episode to kick off the New Year discussing the changes Trev has seen in his extensive and varied career and lifelong friendships with the amazing CMC team.

We discuss the secrets behind Trev’s success, his youthful appearance, infectiously cheery disposition along with some of the standout memories and events.

There’s something for everyone in this episode, a lot of laughs and some serious messaging around what makes a successful career – a love of the job and the company, a strong work ethic, the importance of a smart appearance and ALWAYS being on time.

We look forward to many more years of our energetic, fun and fabulous Trev at CMC and hope that this chat brings a smile to your face!

In this episode of CMC Talks, we’re joined by Stuart Young, retired farm vet and rugby fan for an open and honest discussion about farm life, the changes seen in the veterinary world over recent times and the need to encourage and support hands-on training & young entrant development.

Stuart has spent decades improving poultry health and farm knowledge across the South West, former West Country Layers Association (WCLA) Chairman and is an avid Cullompton RFC supporter and volunteer.

We explore:

• How Stuart developed a lifelong interest for farming and how he progressed through his career as a farm vet
• The need for a positive mentor to develop and guide new entrants
• The importance of a supportive and understanding partner
• The benefits of a work hard/play hard mantra in life

A gentle walk through a successful and lengthy career offering valuable snippets to challenge us to take a risk and make the most of our opportunities.

In this engaging and down-to-earth episode of CMC Talks, we’re joined by Roy and Troy Stuart, Directors of Stuarts, a father-and-son duo with a wealth of knowledge, experience, and plenty of stories to share.

Together, they reflect on their journeys, how they developed and grown their business to where it is today, and the valuable lessons they’ve learned along the way.

Roy and Troy discuss:

-The importance of letting people think, and learn, for themselves

-The importance of handing over the reigns at an early age to grow and drive the business forward (accepting that there may be a few mistakes along the way)

-Pivotal events that shaped their lives and careers and the key people involved

A candid conversation celebrating real-life lessons, practical common sense sound bytes, the importance of family, and the kind of wisdom you can only gain through years served in a business.

In this episode of CMC Talks, we’re joined by Stuart Gough and Dr. Huw McConochie for an open and insightful discussion about change, growth, and finding balance in both work and life.

Stuart Gough, who joined the CMC Technical Team in March 2025, brings over 30 years of experience as a farm-focused veterinary surgeon. His deep understanding of livestock health and farming life shapes his practical, hands-on approach to supporting producers across the South West.

Dr. Huw McConochie began his career working on a dairy farm before going on to complete a PhD in lactation physiology at Aberystwyth University. Now working for Zinpro, he conducts research and provides dairy technical services to customers globally.

Together, they explore:

🔹 The major changes that shaped their careers

🔹 How they started out and their visions for the future

🔹 Using AI wisely within agriculture

🔹 How career changes can impact family life

An inspiring episode about embracing change, and continuing to grow in an ever-evolving industry.

Bev shares her journey from growing up on a hill farm on Dartmoor to returning home after a career in Kent. Her connection to the countryside now fuels her work with Farmwise, she discusses the joy of seeing children experience livestock up close for the first time and how hands-on learning builds real connections to farming and food.

His parents started out as first-generation farmers on a small County Council tenancy, building Rivermead Dairy into a thriving, respected business, Mark talks about his own path into auctioneering and his continued commitment to supporting farmers and rural communities.

Together, they remind us of the value of education, and passing on a love for the land to future generations.

In this warm and insightful conversation, we explore:

🔹 The history of their family farm

🔹 Getting advice from those working in the industry

🔹 What it’s really like to work side by side while being married

🔹 Balancing family life with the demands of farming

An honest, down-to-earth episode about farming, family, and finding joy in working together.

James Yeatman, third generation dairy farmer from Dorset and Managing Director of Cow Recovery™ System joined us for our latest episode. We discussed why, as farmers, we should strive to look after our animals to the very best of our abilities and prioritise staff safety.

We talked about the idea and innovation of the of Cow Recovery™ System developed by James in collaboration with Synergy Farm Health and how R&D plays a vital role in the sustainability and progression of our valuable industry.

We also discussed the importance of allowing yourself time away from the farm and the benefits of sea swimming with family to create time to think!

Keen to maximise their farm by utilising soil health, exploring different beef and sheep breeds and practising regenerative agriculture practices, this dynamic couple, along with their family are open minded, travel the country and the world exploring new ideas and the latest advancements in farming to drive their business forward.

Whilst moving stock together can test their resolve, they appreciate and respect the differing strengths they can bring to the business.

This latest CMC Talks episode is full of great nuggets to challenge the listener to think openly, embrace new concepts and seek out the best system/systems to suit your farm.

We are joined by two respected voices in the industry: Colin Gravatt, Poultry Specialist at Crediton Milling Company, and Tim Gelfs, Poultry Farmer, County Chair of Dorset NFU, and Chair of the West Country Layer Association.

In this anniversary episode, the discussion covers the continued success of eggs in the UK market, the role of AI in agriculture, and whether human expertise remains essential in a changing industry. The guests also share unique personal insights, reflect on the mentality of today’s farmer, and explore current challenges and opportunities in the free-range sector.

With expert insights, industry reflections, and a few unexpected facts from the guests, this episode offers a thoughtful and timely look at where the poultry sector stands—and where it’s headed.

This episode will discuss global and UK food trends, food self-sufficiency and emerging trends with consumers especially Generation Z and how agriculture can better engage with younger consumers to demonstrate the positive benefits of supporting local/British. We will also be discussing the young farmers movement, what YFC has done for Kayleigh and why she made the decision to run for County Chairman along with what she is hoping to achieve in her year in office.

It promises to be an interesting and engaging episode!

CMC Talks - It’s all about people!

Andrew Power - Sales Director, Crediton Milling Company

Paul Harris - Founding & Managing Director, Real Success

This week on CMC Talks, we’re talking all things people – why they stay, why they leave, and how to build a business culture that lasts. Our guests join us to explore the true cost of losing great people and how personality strengths can shape roles within the farming community.

They also share insights into the partnership between Real Success and CMC, the power of communication, and how to play to your natural strengths in the workplace.

Mark Gulley - Managing Director, Crediton Milling Company

We are joined by Mark Gulley for the latest RM & rugby update!

Tune in for valuable insights, real stories, and plenty of inspiration!

Disclaimer: RM information was correct at the time of recording (Wednesday 9th April 2025).

Guest 1: James Coleman - Managing Director, Creedy Carver

Barny Butterfield - Founder, Sandford Orchards

This week on CMC Talks, we’re diving into the core values of business with two incredible guests - James Coleman, Managing Director of Creedy Carvers, and Barny Butterfield, Founder of Sandford Orchards.

From their humble beginnings to the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, they share their journeys, challenges, and what it really takes to run a successful business.

Guest 2: Mark Gulley - Managing Director, Crediton Milling Company

We are joined by Mark Gulley for the latest RM update, plus a deep dive into all things sport!

Tune in for valuable insights, real stories, and plenty of inspiration!

Guest: Scott Brimilcombe, Operations Director

Darren Hughes, Mill Manager

Ben Wonnacott, Transport Coordinator

Join our very own Scott, Darren, and Ben as they talk about the process of animal feed production, sharing their knowledge and experiences from their time at CMC. They discuss the rewarding aspects of their roles, the challenges they’ve faced, and the insights they’ve gained along the way!

They discuss the rewarding aspects of their roles, the challenges they’ve faced, and the insights they’ve gained along the way.

Guest 2: Mark Gulley, Director of Crediton Milling Company

Mark Gulley joins us for his usual RM Update, and of course it wouldn't be an Mark Gulley segment unless we touched upon Rugby!

Come and see us at The West Country Farming & Machinery on the 19th of February! Find us at Stand 60A.

DISCLAIMER - The RM Market update from Mark Gulley was recorded a few days prior to the release of the podcast - prices may have changed since.

Stay tuned to the end for some BREAKING NEWS!

Guest 1: Mark Gulley, Director of Crediton Milling Company

Mark Gulley, the Director of Crediton Milling Company, kicks off the episode once again with an ‘after Christmas catch up’ as well as providing us with the usual RM Update! Tune in to hear Mark's input on:

• What the next year will bring for CMC
• More rugby!
• The market over the Christmas period

Guest 2: Matt Holmes - Ruminant Specialist

Our very own Matt Holmes gives us his input on:

• Beef and sheep market update
• Resilience of British farming, specifically the challenging weather!
• The important aspects that come with feeding your lambs

Guest 3: Gary Ford - Head of Strategy and Producer Engagement at BFREPA

• Current situation with Avian Influenza
• Migration period & Bio Security
• BFREPA Roadshows!

Tune in now to Episode 5 of CMC Talks for your latest industry insights!

In this episode of CMC Talks, we have our usual RM update from our CMC Director, Mark Gulley and welcome two delightful guests for an honest and open conversation you won’t want to miss!

Guest 1: Mark Gulley, Director of Crediton Milling Company

Mark Gulley, the Director of Crediton Milling Company, kicks off the episode by giving us the rugby low down, as well as providing us with the usual RM Update! Tune in to hear Mark's expert analysis on:

• The effects of recent weather
• A quick rugby update!
• Current market trends and their implications

Guests 2: Anna Hares – Vet & Josh Hares – Dairy &Chicken Farmer

Following Mark's insightful update, we are joined by Anna and Josh Hares, a vet and a dairy farmer, who share their experiences balancing careers in veterinary practice, chicken farming, and egg production—all while raising two young children. The juggle is real!

• Work-life balance
• Chicken farming & egg production
• A new business venture

Tune in now to Episode 4 of CMC Talks for your latest industry insights!

Featured Guests:

Guest 1: Mark Gulley, Director of Crediton Milling Company

Mark Gulley kicks off the episode with a thorough analysis of the current market, drawing from his extensive experience in the agricultural industry.

Guest 2: Dan Grist, Devon YFC County Chairman

Guest 3: Chris Courtier, Farmer at Gooseford Dairy

Following Mark's valuable insights, we sit down with Dan Grist and Chris Courtier for a lively discussion on the evolving dynamics of team culture, the growth opportunities available to young farmers, and important topics like mental health and the value of travel experiences.

Whether you're an industry professional or simply interested in the agricultural and poultry sectors, this episode is packed with great insights, expert tips, and a few laughs along the way.

Guest 1: Mark Gulley, Director of Crediton Milling Company

Mark Gulley, the Director of Crediton Milling Company, kicks off the episode by providing an in-depth market update. With his extensive experience and leadership in the industry, Mark offers valuable perspectives on current market conditions, trends, and what the future might hold for the agricultural sector. Tune in to hear Mark's expert analysis on:

• Current market trends and their implications
• Key challenges and opportunities in the industry
• Future outlook and predictions

Guest 2: Liz Warner, Farmer and Consultant

Following Mark's insightful update, we are joined by Liz Warner, a seasoned farmer and consultant who has dedicated over 16 years to the poultry industry. Liz shares her extensive experience and knowledge, covering a wide range of topics relevant to both new and experienced poultry farmers. Her segment includes:

• Best practices in poultry farming
• Innovations and advancements in the industry
• Advice for farmers to optimize their operations

Whether you're an industry professional or simply interested in the agricultural and poultry sectors, this episode is packed with valuable information and expert advice. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn from two leading figures in the field.

Tune in now to Episode 2 of CMC Talks for your latest industry insights!

In This Episode:

• Meet the Hosts: Get to know William and Karen, your lively hosts who bring a perfect mix of knowledge and humour to the podcast.
• Special Guests: We will be joined by different guests in each episode, from farmers to other industry experts.

Hot Topics:

• Farm Life: Hear fascinating anecdotes from our guests about their day-to-day lives on the farm and the unique challenges they face.
• Banter and Fun: Expect plenty of laughs as William, Karen, and their guests share their quirks, stories, and humorous takes on industry topics.

Why Tune In?

• Entertainment and Education: Enjoy a perfect blend of informative content and light-hearted fun.
• Expert Advice: Gain valuable insights from industry professionals and experienced farmers.

Join the Conversation:

• Connect with Us: Follow us on Facebook to stay updated on upcoming episodes and share your thoughts.
• Feedback: We love hearing from you. Leave us a review and let us know what you think of the show.

Tune in to CMC Talks and become a part of our vibrant community where farming meets fun, and every episode is a new adventure!

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