In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle sits down with Alex and Emily Crawley, co-directors of Grazing Management Limited, to explore the concept of conservation grazing and their journey starting their business. Based in the Forest of Dean, the Crawleys are using native breed cattle, sheep, and goats to deliver environmental benefits on land managed by charities, government agencies, and private owners.

Neither Emily nor Alex began their careers in agriculture. Emily comes from a background in the charitable sector (and also as a pilates instructor!), while Alex transitioned from a military and diplomatic career into land management, later earning a Graduate Diploma in Agriculture and becoming a Nuffield Scholar.

Together, they’ve built a contract grazing business that earned them the British Farming Awards' New Entrant accolade within just two years. This conversation dives into three core themes: the power of farming to support environmental goals, the realities of starting a land-based business without owning land, and the bold personal journeys that led them to agriculture.

🎧 Topics covered:

What conservation grazing is and why it matters

The role of native livestock in biodiversity and habitat management

Starting a farming business without owning land

Transitioning into agriculture from completely different careers

Lessons learned, early successes, and advice for new entrants

📝 Resources & Mentions:

Nuffield Farming Scholarships

Royal Agricultural University – Graduate Diploma in Agriculture

British Farming Awards – New Entrant Category

🌿 Whether you’re interested in sustainable land management, starting a farming venture, or simply love a good career pivot story, this episode offers insight and inspiration in equal measure.

Image credit: Alex and Emily Crawley

Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency.

Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here.

About Ben and RuralPod Media

Ben Eagle is the founder and Head of Podcasts at RuralPod Media, a specialist rural podcast production agency. He is also a freelance rural affairs and agricultural journalist. You can find out more at ruralpodmedia.co.uk or benjamineagle.co.uk

If you have a business interested in getting involved with podcasting check us out at RuralPod Media. We'd love to help you spread your message.

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