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Every day I wake up and Donald Trump is the news the news the news the news

I don’t know who needs to hear this, but if you’re waking up every morning with a vague pain in your chest and wondering if it’s anxiety, indigestion, or democracy collapsing again — same.

Every day I open my eyes, and there he is. Donald. Trump. Still. In. The. News.

Not a cameo. Not a footnote. Full-blown lead story. Every hour. Every update. Like Groundhog Day, but with more indictments and worse hair.

Remember when the big idea was that humans could evolve? That countries could be run by grownups? That peace was the point, not the punchline?

Now it feels like all the major decisions in the world are being made by someone stuck at emotional age nine. And the rest of the so-called leaders? Let’s just say the hiring process clearly didn’t involve anyone with a sense of ethics, foresight, or emotional regulation. Psychopaths used to run countries in the history books. Now it’s a business strategy.

And the news. Oh, the news. The news the news the news the news.
We were promised journalism would inform us. Hold power to account.
Instead, it’s a horror anthology with a soundtrack of sirens and clickbait.

Somewhere between the latest war and a cost-of-living crisis, we’re now expected to care about how much ketamine Elon Musk has had this week.
And why he’s once again spending his time publicly arguing with teenagers.

No, really.
Grown men with private jets and space programs are picking fights with high school kids who make their protest signs on Canva and believe the planet deserves a future.

They’re treating social media like a battlefield, as if scoring points online against a Year 12 student will somehow fix inflation, lower emissions, or improve global diplomacy.

It’s not leadership. It’s ego with a Wi-Fi connection.

This was not the deal.
The deal was flying cars, world peace, and a universal translator for when your cat gives you that look.
What we got was a chaos feed in our pocket and the creeping realisation that our nervous systems were never built for this.

Still, we wake up.
We switch on the coffee machine like it’s our defibrillator.
We doomscroll in the dark like responsible citizens with trust issues.

And then we whisper the sacred prayer of modern existence:
“Maybe today, Donald Trump won’t be the news.”

He always is.

Meanwhile, other things that make you want to scream into a linen napkin

While millions of people skip meals, ration medication, and pray their rent doesn’t go up again, Jeff Bezos is reportedly dropping $10 million US, that’s about $15.5 million Australian, to marry his second wife on a private island in Venice.

Yes. Really.
An actual gazillionaire is about to host a wedding so opulent it makes Versailles look like a backyard barbecue. The venue? San Giorgio Maggiore, a Venetian island known for its breathtaking views and complete absence of irony.

The bride? Lauren Sánchez. Former TV presenter. Occasional astronaut. Regular in the “who’s who of the world’s most dramatically posed Instagram photos”.

The rest of us? We’re still watching iceberg lettuce prices like it’s a stock market and quietly wondering if we could afford to be slightly less alive this month.

Of course, he can spend his money however he likes.
But maybe, just maybe, when the world is on fire and families are skipping breakfast so their kids can eat dinner, $15.5 million on a destination wedding feels less like romance and more like a slap in the face with a diamond-studded fan.

Eat the rich? We can’t.
They’ve booked out the catering.

#TrumpAgain #NewsOverload #CoffeeBeforeChaos #ElonVsTeenagers #PsychopathsInPower #EatTheRich

How we Move Beyond “Woke” and Reclaim Meaningful Conversations

The Power of Labels

Labelling an idea as “woke” can abruptly end conversations. It simplifies complex issues into dismissive categories like irrelevant or extreme. This shortcut undermines meaningful discussion and blocks understanding, creating barriers instead of building bridges.

Why Does This Happen?

Cognitive Dissonance: When ideas challenge deeply held beliefs, discomfort often arises. Labelling these ideas as “woke” offers an easy escape from confronting that discomfort, bypassing critical thought.
Fear of Change: Change, especially when tied to identity or values, can feel threatening. Dismissing ideas as “woke” can act as a protective reaction, shielding individuals from engaging with perceived challenges to their worldviews.
Simplification of Complex Issues: Many ideas dismissed as “woke” address nuanced topics like inequality or privilege. Reducing them to a buzzword eliminates the need to engage with their intricacies, avoiding the hard work of understanding.

How Can We Respond?

Stay Curious: Curiosity invites dialogue and defuses tension. Ask questions like:
- “What specifically about this idea do you find problematic?”
- “How would you approach this issue differently?”
- This shifts the focus from the label to the substance of the discussion.
Refocus the Conversation: Bring attention back to the core topic rather than the label:
- “Let’s explore the actual idea instead of getting caught up in terminology.”
Find Common Ground: Shared values often exist, even in polarized conversations:
- “We both seem to value fairness—let’s discuss how we might approach this issue differently.”
Model Openness: Set an example by demonstrating a willingness to listen and engage thoughtfully:
- “I can see why this might be difficult to accept—it took me time to understand as well.”

What’s at Stake?

Over-reliance on dismissive labels like “woke” limits dialogue, perpetuates division, and blocks progress. By avoiding deep engagement, we miss opportunities to:

Understand differing perspectives.
Foster connections across divides.
Develop solutions that consider a broader range of experiences.

A Final Thought

Effective conversations aren’t about winning—they’re about planting seeds of understanding and possibility. While not every conversation will yield immediate change, some may grow in ways you don’t expect. And remember, you might change your mind. Even if you strongly disagree with an idea initially, engaging in respectful dialogue can open your mind to new perspectives and challenge your own assumptions.

Have you faced similar challenges in conversations?

What strategies have worked for you?

Are you open exploring ways to move past dismissive labelling and towards constructive dialogue.

#BeyondWoke #MeaningfulDialogue #BridgingDivides #ChallengeYourBeliefs #BeyondLabels #ConstructiveConversation #OpenMind #CriticalThinking

Navigating Conversations Dismissed as “Woke”

In today’s political and cultural discussions, the word “woke” has evolved from a term signifying awareness of social injustices into a divisive label.

The term “WOKE” is often used pejoratively to shut down ideas without engaging with their substance. This shift has significant implications for dialogue, understanding, and meaningful connection.

Here’s how we can navigate conversations where this kind of dismissal arises:

1. A Misunderstood Label

Originally, being “woke” was about staying alert to societal inequalities, a call for empathy and awareness. However, the term has been co-opted and weaponised to ridicule progressive ideas. This misuse undermines the genuine intentions behind the term, turning what could be an invitation to discuss complex issues into a barrier to conversation.

How to address it:
Recognise and clarify the original intent behind the term. For instance, you might say, “I think there’s some misunderstanding here when people talk about being ‘woke,’ they often mean being aware of and addressing societal challenges. Can we explore the specific issue you’re concerned about?”

2. Avoidance of Complexity

Labelling something as “woke” often acts as a shortcut, bypassing the effort it takes to understand or address opposing views. Instead of tackling the nuances of an idea, the label serves to discredit it entirely.

How to address it:
Encourage deeper engagement by asking thoughtful, open-ended questions:

“What aspects of this idea do you find challenging or unhelpful?”
“Have you considered other perspectives on this issue?”

These questions prompt reflection and can steer the conversation towards a more meaningful exchange.

3. Polarisation and Defensiveness

Using “woke” as a derogatory term often reflects defensiveness or an unwillingness to consider ideas outside one’s ideological comfort zone. This dynamic increases polarisation, fostering an “us versus them” mentality that hinders understanding.

How to address it:
Acknowledge the defensiveness without escalating it. You might say, “I understand why this topic might feel polarising. What do you think is at the heart of the disagreement?” This can create a space for empathy and shared values to emerge.

4. Erosion of Dialogue

When terms like “woke” are used dismissively, they derail conversations and reduce opportunities for genuine connection. Instead of discussing the core ideas, the focus shifts to the emotional weight or connotations of the label itself.

How to address it:
Shift the focus back to the issue at hand. For example:

“Rather than focusing on labels, I’d like to hear more about your specific concerns regarding this topic.”
“Can we move past the term and discuss the underlying problem?”

5. Reframing the Conversation

Reframing is a powerful tool for navigating dismissive language. By steering the dialogue back to the issue itself, you can encourage critical thinking and engagement.

Sample reframes:

“What part of this perspective do you think is worth exploring further?”
“Do you think there’s common ground we can build on here?”

This approach not only de-escalates tensions but also invites collaboration and mutual understanding.

Why It Matters

Dismissing ideas as “woke” isn’t just a linguistic choice, it reflects broader trends in how we approach disagreement. By refusing to engage deeply, we miss opportunities for growth, compromise, and progress. Navigating these conversations with curiosity and care can help bridge divides and foster a culture of respectful dialogue.

A Call to Action
When faced with dismissive labelling, consider this: Every conversation is an opportunity to connect and learn. By resisting the temptation to retreat or retaliate, we can model the kind of meaningful discourse we wish to see.

Have you encountered this dynamic in your own conversations?

How do you respond when someone uses terms like “woke” to dismiss opposing views?

#woke #dialogue #polarisation #socialjustice #complexity #meaningfulconversation #curiosity #empathy #reframing #debate

Trust, Rhetoric, and the Power of Trump’s Appeal to America’s Working Class

Trust. In today’s world, it’s everything—or so we say. Yet, watching the recent US election, you’d be forgiven for wondering where that trust is coming from and why it’s placed the way it is. In this latest round, America’s working class has once again cast its lot with Donald Trump, a billionaire who’s never lived their life, who’s never struggled to cover the bills or faced a family medical crisis with no safety net. And yet, for millions, he’s their man, their fighter, the one they believe will deliver the promises that have slipped through their fingers for decades.

How did we get here? How is it that a convicted felon, a wealthy man, steeped in privilege, can inspire trust as a working-class champion? Well, it’s not simple. There’s the power of rhetoric, sure. Trump’s got that in spades. There’s the disillusionment with the establishment, the sense of betrayal by anyone “in charge.” And then there’s that extraordinary way Trump seems to draw people in—people whose lives look nothing like his own.

Trump’s skill with rhetoric is undeniable. He zeroes in on the frustration and disappointment working Americans feel every day: wages that don’t go up, futures that feel shaky. He tells them he’s going to “drain the swamp,” take down the elites, and shake up a system that so many believe has forgotten them. He talks about bringing back jobs, fighting China, and standing up to the faceless forces keeping them down. His lifestyle may scream luxury, but his words? They speak right to the heart of their struggle.

Then there’s another piece to all this: Trump’s way of connecting with those for whom religion is everything. He talks about defending religious freedom, protecting conservative values, and restoring the “traditional” family in a way that resonates deeply with people who feel their beliefs are under siege. They look past his opulent life because he presents himself as the one willing to safeguard their faith in a secular world.

But here’s the surprising part: his followers don’t seem to need him to walk in their shoes. They don’t demand shared experience. Instead, they want someone to stand up for their right to live their way, protect their jobs, and fight for values they feel slipping away. Trump, for them, is that person.

So, what’s going on here? Rhetoric? Distrust of the establishment? The appeal of a “strongman” who’ll protect their rights? All of that, maybe. But here’s the kicker about Trump’s appeal: it’s not policy, and it’s not empathy. It’s about something much bigger. When people feel overwhelmed, they look for a saviour. They look outward, hoping for someone to come in and take up the burden, someone who says, “Trust me. I’ve got this.” That’s where Trump comes in.

It’s a handover of responsibility. People put their faith in him, hoping he’ll do the heavy lifting. They’re not asking, “Does he understand us?” They’re asking, “Will he take on this battle for us?” And for those weighed down by a world that feels too much, Trump is the easy choice. He promises to shoulder their struggles, to protect their way of life. It’s not about whether he lives like them. It’s that he’s willing to play the role of protector—a modern answer to that old yearning for someone, something, to step in and make everything right.

So, there it is. For many, Trump embodies that saviour figure, letting them look outward for answers and promises of intervention, rather than inward for change. It’s a comfortable, almost timeless choice, and one that’s powerful enough to keep millions of Americans trusting him, election after election.

Questioning Agriculture’s Doom and Gloom Strategy

Given the severe cost-of-living pressures that the general community is under, it’s worth questioning what agriculture hopes to achieve by frequently sharing their financial struggles.

“While most of us are baulking at the increased cost of keeping a family fed, dairy farmers who produce some of that food are copping a 10-16 per cent pay cut. That loss of income is pushing many young Australian farming families to the brink.

…. farmer .. fought back tears as he described the pressure of being at breaking point.

“I am going to try and get through,” he said. “I’m not giving up, but I came so close the other day [when he heard about the milk price] — I haven’t been so depressed and down in a long time. Source

25 years ago I too thought this doom and gloom strategy had merit until a very wise man ( than you Dr Neil Moss ) explained to me how counterproductive it could be. This set me on a journey to provide the expertise tools and knowledge to teach agriculture’s young people how to share a balanced perspective and it continues to frustrate me how much further we have go . See all the links in this story

As the cost of living continues to rise, it’s essential for agriculture to communicate its challenges in a way that aligns with the broader economic realities faced by Australians. By presenting a balanced narrative and engaging in collaborative solutions, the industry can foster greater understanding and support from the public, ensuring its sustainability and success in a challenging economic environment.

Note: I asked a marketing and communication expert to share their expertise, and this is what they said:

Considerations

Public Perception: When everyday Australians are already grappling with rising housing costs, rent, and food prices, constant reports of farmers’ financial woes might lead to public fatigue or desensitization.
Support and Advocacy: While raising awareness about the challenges in the agriculture industry is important, it’s crucial to ensure that the message resonates with a public already feeling economic strain.
Balanced Narrative: Highlighting both the struggles and the resilience within the industry might foster greater public empathy and support. For instance, showcasing innovations, community contributions, and the importance of local dairy production could engage a broader audience.
Collaborative Solutions: Focusing on potential solutions and collaborations with consumers, policymakers, and other stakeholders can drive constructive conversations and actionable change.

The Impact of Doom and Gloom Press on Labour Attraction in Agriculture

The pervasive “doom and gloom” narrative in the media significantly hampers the agricultural sector’s ability to attract labour. Constant negative coverage creates a perception of instability and hardship within industries such as grains, sheep, beef, dairy, and horticulture, deterring potential workers from entering these fields.

For example, the dairy industry has over two-thirds of producers reporting difficulties in finding workers (Rural Bank). Similarly, the grains industry struggles with severe labour shortages due to regional demographic shifts and inadequate workforce planning (Grain Producers AU). The sheep industry also faces a critical shortage of skilled shearers, exacerbating the problem (Rural Bank). This negative press not only impacts recruitment efforts but also affects the morale and retention of existing workers. To combat these issues, it is crucial to balance the narrative by highlighting success stories, innovations, and the essential role of agriculture in sustaining the economy and food security. This can help attract a more stable and committed workforce, ensuring the long-term viability of these vital industries.

Comparison of Cost-of-Living Ratios for Australians: 2019 vs. 2024

Cost of Living Ratios 2019 -2024

As the cost of living continues to rise, it’s essential for agriculture to communicate its challenges in a way that aligns with the broader economic realities faced by Australians. By presenting a balanced narrative and engaging in collaborative solutions, the industry can foster greater understanding and support from the public, ensuring its sustainability and success in a challenging economic environment.

References

For those keen to explore this further here is what I have learnt along the way. Note: The data presented under “Farming is a Risky Business” has been collated by me using a variety of sources. If you wish to use it, please fact-check it first (and if you find any errors, please let me know).

Yes Farming is a very Risky Business

Financial Risk Comparison: Farming vs. Retail Business in Australia

Risk Factor	Farming Business	Retail Business
Market Volatility	High – Fluctuations in commodity prices and input costs significantly impact profitability (Agriculture Australia) (GRDC)	Moderate – Sensitive to economic conditions and competition, but more predictable than farming.Deloitte US
Weather and Climate Risks	High – Dependent on weather conditions; climate change increases unpredictability and risk (Agriculture Australia) (GRDC)	Low – Minimal impact from weather, primarily affected by economic factors Climate Change Adaptation NSW
Biological Factors	High – Risks from pests, diseases, and other biological threats can devastate crops and livestock (Agriculture Australia) (GRDC)	Low – Minimal impact from biological factors; main concerns are product shelf life and spoilage for perishable goods. CEOpedia
Regulatory Risks	High – Changes in agricultural policies and regulations add to operational uncertainties (Agriculture Australia) (Safe Work Australia)	Moderate – Subject to business regulations, but generally more stable than agricultural policiesBusiness.gov.au
Capital Requirements	High – Significant initial investment in land, machinery, and livestock; high ongoing maintenance costs (Agriculture Australia) (GRDC)	Moderate – Variable initial investment depending on location and business size; ongoing costs for inventory and space. SmartBusinessPlan
Health and Safety Risks	High – Higher risk of physical injuries, chemical exposure, and zoonotic diseases (Safe Work Australia)	Moderate – Risks include slips, trips, falls, and customer-related incidents (Safe Work Australia) (Safe Work Australia)
Predictability	Low – Many uncontrollable external factors like weather and market conditions (Agriculture Australia) (GRDC)	High – More predictable and controllable risks related to market trends and business operations. InData Labs
Financial Stability	Low – High volatility in income due to external factors; significant risk of financial instability (Agriculture Australia) (GRDC)	Moderate – Generally more stable income with fluctuations based on economic conditions and competition. Bizfluent
Risk Mitigation	Diversification, insurance, and adopting resilient agricultural practices (Agriculture Australia) (GRDC)	Market research, diversifying product lines, and effective inventory management. BizCover

Comparative Risk Factor

Comparison	Details
Risk Factor	Volatility in Australian Farming: Comparison with Other Sectors: Australian farm business managers operate in a more volatile environment compared to virtually all national agriculture sectors worldwide. Comparison with Non-Agricultural Businesses: Businesses involved in Australian agriculture experience more than twice the level of volatility on average compared to businesses in other sectors of the Australian economy. GRDC Update Paper “Factoring Risk into Farm Decision Making,”

Comparison

Details

Risk Factor

Volatility in Australian Farming:

Comparison with Other Sectors: Australian farm business managers operate in a more volatile environment compared to virtually all national agriculture sectors worldwide.
Comparison with Non-Agricultural Businesses: Businesses involved in Australian agriculture experience more than twice the level of volatility on average compared to businesses in other sectors of the Australian economy.

GRDC Update Paper “Factoring Risk into Farm Decision Making,”

Conclusion

While both industries face significant risks, the inherent unpredictability of farming due to weather, market volatility, and biological factors makes it a riskier venture compared to retail, where risks are more predictable and controllable. This highlights the importance of effective risk management strategies for sustaining farming businesses in Australia.

Potential Consequences of Negative Press Coverage and Mentioning Large Financial Losses

Category	Impact	Details
Negative Perception	Industry Instability	Negative coverage can create a perception that the dairy industry is unstable, deterring investors and consumers.
	Consumer Confidence	Consumers might lose confidence in the products they purchase, thinking the industry is failing or exploitative.
Impact on Farmers	Morale	Constant negative media can demoralize farmers who are already struggling, leading to decreased productivity and more farmers exiting the industry.
	Community Trust	Farmers may feel less supported by their communities and the broader public, exacerbating feelings of isolation and helplessness.
Financial Implications	Investor Reluctance	Highlighting large financial losses can make potential investors wary of putting money into the industry.
	Market Reactions	Negative reports can lead to panic or reduced spending in related sectors, affecting the broader economy.
Policy and Public Response	Hasty Policies	Policymakers might feel pressured to act quickly, leading to ill-conceived policies that don’t address the root issues.
	Public Backlash	The public might push for changes without fully understanding the complexities, leading to unintended consequences.
Contextual Misunderstanding	Misleading Numbers	Large figures like $217,000 can be misleading without proper context, skewing public perception about average incomes or industry norms.
	Lack of Nuance	Focusing on dramatic numbers oversimplifies the situation, ignoring the nuanced challenges and solutions within the industry.
Potential Solutions	Balanced Reporting	Media should provide a balanced view, highlighting both challenges and success stories to offer a more comprehensive picture.
	Focus on Solutions	Articles should also focus on potential solutions and innovations within the industry, inspiring hope and encouraging support.
	Engagement with Stakeholders	Constructive dialogue with all stakeholders, including farmers, consumers, and policymakers, can help develop comprehensive strategies to address the issues.

Summary

Negative press coverage and the mention of large financial losses, such as the $200,000 loss in the dairy industry, can have widespread consequences. These include creating a perception of industry instability, lowering consumer confidence, and demoralising farmers. Financially, it can deter investors and negatively impact market reactions. Negative press not only impacts recruitment efforts but also affects the morale and retention of existing workers. Policymakers may feel pressured to act hastily, potentially resulting in Band-Aid solutions. Additionally, without proper context, large figures can mislead the public, oversimplifying complex issues.

Balanced reporting, focusing on solutions, and engaging with all stakeholders are essential to foster a better understanding and support for the agriculture industry. This approach can help mitigate the negative impacts of sensationalist reporting and promote a more accurate and constructive dialogue about the industry’s challenges and opportunities.

Comparing Volatility Risk in Top Agricultural Industries in Australia

Here is the list of top agricultural industries in Australia, ranked from highest to lowest volatility risk based on various factors such as climate dependence, market prices, and operational challenges.

Industry	Volatility Risk Factors	Impact and Trends
Grains and Oilseeds	– Climate Dependence: Highly susceptible to weather conditions, including droughts and floods.	– Significant output growth but affected by climate change.
	– Global Market Prices: Fluctuations in international market prices can cause instability.	– Fastest-growing export segment in real value terms between 2003-04 and 2022-23 (Agriculture Australia) (Agriculture Australia).
Sheep	– Market Prices: Wool and meat prices can be volatile, influenced by global markets.	– Decreased output due to shifts towards cropping and destocking during droughts (Agriculture Australia).
	– Drought: Prolonged droughts can severely impact flock sizes and productivity.	– Adjustments post-1990s, with productivity improvements and structural changes (Agriculture Australia) (Agriculture Australia).
Beef	– Weather Variability: Rainfall and pasture conditions heavily impact production levels.	– Productivity growth driven by improved pastures and genetics (Agriculture Australia).
	– Disease Outbreaks: Risks of diseases like Foot-and-Mouth Disease can cause severe disruptions.	– Major export industry, with significant volatility due to disease risks (Agriculture Australia).
Dairy	– Market Prices: Prices can fluctuate significantly due to changes in global demand and supply.	– Productivity growth has varied, influenced by structural changes and technology adoption (Agriculture Australia).
	– Feed Costs: Variability in feed prices affects overall production costs.	– Record farm cash incomes in 2022-23 but susceptible to production disruptions from wet conditions (Agriculture Australia).
Horticulture	– Weather and Pests: Weather conditions and pest outbreaks can lead to substantial losses.	– Steady increase in production, particularly in high-value crops (Agriculture Australia).
	– Labour Costs and Availability: Dependent on seasonal labour, which can be variable and costly.	– High export orientation, with significant peaks in demand (Agriculture Australia).

Key Takeaways

Grains and Oilseeds: This sector faces the highest volatility due to its dependency on climate conditions and global market prices. Despite this, it has seen significant growth, particularly in exports.
Sheep: The sheep industry is highly susceptible to market price fluctuations and droughts. Structural changes and technological advancements have helped improve productivity.
Beef: The beef industry is significantly affected by weather variability and disease outbreaks. However, improvements in pastures and genetics have driven productivity growth.
Dairy: Dairy farming is influenced by fluctuating market prices and feed costs. The sector has seen record incomes but remains vulnerable to weather conditions and market changes.
Horticulture: Horticultural products face risks from weather conditions, pests, and labour availability. Despite these challenges, the sector has seen steady production growth.

Conclusion

Each of these top agricultural industries in Australia carries its own set of volatility risks, primarily driven by climate dependence, market fluctuations, and operational challenges. For anyone looking to invest in or manage these industries, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of these risks and to develop strategies to mitigate them. This includes diversifying income sources, investing in technology, and adopting best practices in risk management.

Strong financial skills and a supportive team can significantly help in navigating these challenges, ensuring that your business remains resilient in the face of volatility.

Navigating Financial Risks in Business: The Importance of Strong Financial Skills and a Supportive Team

Entering any business venture requires more than just a great idea; it demands a deep understanding of the financial landscape and the risks involved. Whether you’re considering farming or retail, each industry presents unique challenges that can significantly impact your financial stability. Therefore, it’s crucial to approach your business with your eyes wide open, equipped with strong financial skills, and surrounded by a team of experts who can fill in the gaps in your knowledge.

The Importance of Financial Skills

Having strong financial skills is essential for navigating these risks. You need to be able to:

Analyse Financial Statements: Understand your balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements to make informed decisions.
Budget and Forecast: Create accurate budgets and forecasts to prepare for various scenarios, especially the worst-case scenarios.
Manage Cash Flow: Ensure you have enough liquidity to cover operational costs, even during tough times.

Building a Supportive Team

No business owner can master every aspect of running a business. This is why having a team of experts around you is invaluable. Here are key roles you should consider:

Accountant/Financial Advisor: Helps with financial planning, tax strategies, and maintaining financial health.
Legal Advisor: Ensures your business complies with all relevant laws and regulations.
Operations Manager: Manages day-to-day operations, allowing you to focus on strategic planning.
Marketing Specialist: Develops strategies to attract and retain customers.

Going into business is not a solo journey. It requires a well-rounded understanding of financial risks and a robust support system. By equipping yourself with strong financial skills and surrounding yourself with a team of experts, you can navigate the complexities of your chosen industry with confidence and resilience. This proactive approach will help ensure that your business not only survives but thrives in the face of challenges.

Approaching your business with your eyes open and being prepared for the financial risks involved is the key to long-term success. So, take the time to build your knowledge, assemble your team, and embark on your business journey with confidence.

#BusinessPlanning #FinancialSkills #FarmingRisks #RetailRisks #BusinessSuccess #Entrepreneurship #FinancialManagement #SupportTeam #RiskManagement #BusinessStrategy

How to Confront a Domineering Team Leader

In many high-pressure environments, bullying behaviours can proliferate due to high-stakes situations, rigid power differentials, and challenging schedule demands. This can have devastating impacts on employee morale, productivity, and retention. One common issue is dealing with disrespect and abuse from team leaders who hold significant power and influence within the organisation.

Goal

To create a safe and respectful working environment by addressing the abusive behaviour of a domineering team leader.

Problem

In many high-pressure environments, bullying behaviours can proliferate due to high-stakes situations, rigid power differentials, and challenging schedule demands. This can have devastating impacts on employee morale, productivity, and retention. One common issue is dealing with disrespect and abuse from team leaders who hold significant power and influence within the organisation.

In this case, a team member is experiencing rude and aggressive behaviour from two new team leaders. This bullying has not only impacted their mental health but has also negatively influenced the team dynamics and workplace culture. The need to address this pattern of abuse is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive work environment.

Solution

Define the Problem

The most common mistake people make is to confront a single incident of abuse as if it were the only problem—in this case, a recent verbal attack. Most likely, the problem is not that single incident but a pattern of abuse. Focusing on the incident alone can lead to getting bogged down in the details of who said what and why.

Find Mutual Purpose

Approaching the conversation in a way that solves both parties’ problems is essential. Here are a few questions to help find Mutual Purpose:

Ask the Humanising Question: Why would a reasonable, rational, and decent person get angry and abusive like this? What is he trying to achieve and why is he so frustrated?
Clarify Your Long-term Goals: What do you really want from the conversation, not just for yourself, but for the other person and the relationship? This helps to take the high road and aim for a win-win solution.
Identify What You Respect About the Team Leader: Focus on elements you respect, which helps to establish Mutual Respect. Respect is like air; as soon as it’s absent, it’s all anyone can think about. Ensuring respect in the relationship is crucial for productive dialogue.

Prepare for the Conversation

Personal preparation sets the stage for a productive conversation. It’s important to get your head and heart right before engaging in dialogue. Once you’re ready, request a private conversation with the team leader.

Conduct the Conversation

Share the Facts: Present the facts of the recent abuse as you experienced them.
Describe the Consequences: Explain how the behaviour made you feel, impacted the culture, and put projects at risk.
Express Your Desire for Change: Outline how you would like to work differently together in the future.
Listen Actively: Ask the team leader how they see the situation. Listen to understand their perspective, which may reveal aspects of the situation you were unaware of or highlight your own or others’ roles in their frustration.

Assess the Outcome

If the team leader acknowledges the problem and agrees to work on changing their behaviour, this is a positive step forward. If the abusive behaviour continues, it may be necessary to escalate the issue to HR to protect the well-being of the staff and the organisation.

Case Study

A renowned business school addressed similar issues by training their teams to handle abusive behaviour effectively. Leaders administered pre- and post-training surveys to measure confidence in addressing disruptive behaviour. The results showed a statistically significant increase in participants’ confidence and ability to address bad behaviour both immediately after and four weeks post-training. Staff reported numerous instances of disruptive behaviour but also noted that they spoke up and addressed the bad behaviour most of the time.

Conclusion

Addressing abusive behaviour in the workplace is critical for maintaining a safe, respectful, and productive environment. By preparing effectively, finding mutual purpose, and conducting thoughtful conversations, you can help foster a positive change in your workplace culture.

This article is adapted from the original piece by Brittney Maxfield May 29, 2024.

#WorkplaceBullying #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeWellbeing

Why my dad hates ANZAC day

I am lucky enough to be able to surround myself with some of the brightest, talented, most socially responsive, selfless and caring young people in agriculture

One of those young people Hannah Barber just sent me this …… I love it and I am confident you will too…………..

My father hates the tradition of ANZAC day.

Naturally, being a farmer, he hates the idea of any day when the rest of the country closes for business, because he never does. He hates the idea of young blokes getting drunk, gambling their money and making a mess of themselves in town. Most of all, my father hates that our country has relegated celebrating our gallant ANZAC’s, remembering their heroism and living up to the sacrifices they made for us, to just one day of the year.

My father loves the ANZAC’s. He loves reminding us of those who came before us, those who toiled sun up & sun down to make this country what it is today. “You have to know where you’ve come from to know where you’re going” – whether it’s knowing the hardships and blind loyalty of our ANZAC’s, or knowing my great-grandfather chopped through a pine forest and raised his family in a tent to establish our farm; knowledge of the past is inspiration for the future.

Hannah Barber and her dad

My father believes we should all live everyday as though it were ANZAC day. Every day we should be grateful for those who have given us this opportunity, this society.

Be grateful for the ANZAC’s who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Be grateful for the women who have forged the way to allow me to be a woman of the land, independent and choose my own career pathway

Be grateful for the teachers who fought for our rights so when I do eventually (hopefully) marry my strong, handsome farmer, I can stay in that occupation that I love so much.

Be grateful for my mother’s amazing ability to raise all of us in such a loving, giving household and be grateful for my father’s, grandfather’s and great-grandfather’s commitment to leave our land a little better than they found it each time.

Think of those who you ought to be grateful for and remember. Each and every day.

In the meantime, just for tomorrow, wake up early. Pull up your sowing rig or shed the picker if you’re in the cotton game, get the kids out of bed or give your housemate a nudge, and remember in the fashion Australians do best

Celebrate our mighty ANZAC’s. Let the ring of the last post stand your hair on end, don’t fight the tears as returned servicemen salute their fallen brothers. Feel the heat off the light horse as he powerfully strides by and soak up the rising sun over our lucky country as we rise in unison and promise “Lest We Forget”.

Well done Hannah its great to see young people inspiring young people to share your values

Meet Danila Marini a city kid who loves sheep and is doing some amazing research to enhance their welfare

I am a big fan of Meat and Livestock Australia’s Target 100 program concept.

Target 100 initiative demonstrates the long term commitment of Australia’s cattle and sheep farmers to advance sustainable practices – from an environmental, animal welfare, social and economic perspective – and ensure a sustainable food supply for generations to come. Target 100 outlines 100 research, development and extension activities covering soil, water, energy, pests and weeds, biodiversity, emissions and animal welfare.

In fact I am a big fan of any industry initiative that allows farmers to play an active role, communicate with each other, share stories, collaborate and feel proud of themselves, their fellow farmers and their industry.

This initiative also has some great sustainability study guide resources for schools and I was fascinated by an animal welfare Target 100 research initiative for sheep that I came a cross reading Food for the Future which has just been released

This particular project looks at the role of technology in improving animal welfare
and in this case the opportunity to make pharmaceutical and drug delivery systems, including needle-less injectors a more feasible proposition for farmers

You can imagine my excitement when I discovered that Young Farming Champion Jo Newton actually knew one of the researchers involved in this project

Meet Danila Marini

Originally I’m a city kid; I hadn’t gone near anything remotely like a farm until I was 9 when my Dad bought a small property and started a little hobby farm. I had always loved animals but being on this little farm increased my love for livestock animals and sparked my interest in agriculture.

Me getting my sheep ready for measurements for the first experiment of my PhD

I decided working in agriculture was my calling, so I applied for Urrbrae Agricultural High school, even if it meant travelling 2 + hours a day just to study. I made use of the school’s farm and applied to study in as many agricultural subjects as I could and as a result I received the Urrbrae Agricultural high school “Majorie Bowes Prize”, which is awarded to the highest achieving female in agriculture, as well receiving the Animal Science certificate for participating in animal related subjects. Throughout the years I had a million ideas of what I could be when I finished high school, a livestock veterinarian, a jillaroo, a stud breeder, a farmer, the list was endless, everything sounded exciting.

My year 12 Ag class that attended the South East Tour, where we learnt about different agricultural practices in the South East of South Australia

In year ten I went on an excursion to Adelaide University’s Agricultural campus, Roseworthy and to CSIROs Waite campus. I saw some amazing projects on animal nutrition, animal/plant production and animal/plant health. I was completely fascinated and from that point I decided I could do some interesting work in the agricultural field if I became a scientist. It was a hard choice between animal and agricultural science but in the end animals won and I went on to do a Bachelor of Animal Science at Adelaide University.

My Dad, my Mum and me at my graduation day in 2012 for my first degree a Bachelor of Science (Animal Science)

Like most undergrads I still had no definite idea what I wanted to do when I finished my degree. When it was time to graduate, I thought “why not give research a go?” I mean research was one of the main reasons I decided to go to uni. So with that I went and did honours, for which I was awarded first class. During my honours year I learnt a lot about research, I had a lot of fun and I grew to love sheep.

How can you not love those faces!

As the year began to wrap up I knew I wanted to work in animal welfare and if it involved sheep even better! I thought that one of the best ways I could help improve animal welfare was through research so I went looking for PhD projects that had an animal welfare focus. Luckily enough I found a project with CSIRO and the University of New England on self-medication in sheep, which was a double whammy for me! There was a catch though, I had to move from little ol’ Adelaide to an even littler Armidale.

Research sometimes means early starts, late finishes and very long days but I’m not complaining!

The aim of my PhD project is to incorporate pain relief in food, so that sheep and cattle that undergo painful husbandry procedures, such as castration and tail-docking, can eat this food and be relieved of pain. I will also try to train sheep to self-administer the drugs (non-addictive of course) in order to provide pain-relief, this will give us some interesting insight into pain states in animals. I think it will be the most interesting part of my research! In my first year I identified a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (this is what our panadol is) that works at relieving pain in sheep.

My sheepie minions! Together we shall take over the world with great animal welfare practices!

I have just started my second year and I am really enjoying my work, I currently have some interesting experiments planned for this year. They include adding the drugs to food and seeing if it helps to relieve pain in lambs that have been castrated and tail-docked and training sheep to self-medicate.

As you can imagine I’m getting pretty excited about my work. Many think I’m mad having gone on to do a PhD, some days I think I am too but thanks to the support from family, friends and my supervisors at CSIRO and UNE, I am so glad I have started this journey. So here’s to a future of research, helping the agricultural sector and helping animals!

Drought is now an average year and we need a new way of thinking revolution

The farming community spirit is a bit like a diamond where different facets can shine in different circumstances,” Penelope Wensley

Yesterday I received my NFF Advocate newsletter

It began like this

It’s been a tough start to the year for the farm sector, with much of QLD, NSW, SA and NT still heavily within the grips of drought. The NFF has been working to drive outcomes for Australian farmers, and ensure agriculture is reprioritised on the national agenda during this critical time.

My recent post ‘Drought bringing the solutions to the table’ found here reflected on the need for Australians to see drought as an average year and for farmers to focus on bringing the solutions top the table.

‘Farming needs delivery of business strategies on ground right now that can help and this initiative aims at doing everything possible to deliver opportunities going forward. With no stock, no grass, no rain forecasted and no money in the bank it paints a very grim picture around the kitchen table at most farms around Australia.’ James Walker

Farmers need to be pragmatic we can’t hang our hats on waiting for the the government to step in especially in light of reports like this

Productivity Commission and other recent reporting to government are recommending rationalisation of drought assistance and reform of drought policy. The report recognises that the level of drought assistance has crept from a one in twenty five exceptional event to become more frequent in the presence of a long dry and changing climate. In this circumstance, the general observation emerges that too many farm businesses in too many regions have been receiving Exceptional Circumstances (EC) and other related assistance more frequently than the original definition and policy intent. The level of assistance is now deemed inappropriate and an unsustainable distortion of the farm business sector, particularly in the context of climate change.[17]

According to the report [18]:

Most farmers are sufficiently self-reliant to manage climate variability. In 2007-08, 23 per cent of Australia’s 143,000 farms received drought assistance, totalling over $ 1 billion, with some on income support continuously since 2002. In drought declared areas, most farmers manage without assistance. From 2002-03 to 2007-08, on average, about 70 per cent of dairy and broadacre farms in drought areas received no drought assistance.

Governments need to commit to a long term reform path that recognises that the primary responsibility for managing risks, including from climate variability and change, rests with farmers.

Extract found here

Governments do care but they listen to voters and in the 21st century developed world people in the main just aren’t interested in other people’s problems

“You have got to not just influence myself and my colleagues, but you have to influence a whole country, it has to be something that, when you walk into a (Cabinet) room, with the 19 votes, you can get 10 of them. And that is what is politics about. – Barnaby Joyce

On top of this Art4Agriculture’s Archibull Prize entry surveys consistently shows us year after year both teachers and students alike think more than 50% of the food we eat is imported. I am confident our teachers and students are excellent representation of the awareness of the Australian population with regards to where their food come from

Yes farming has done a poor job of showing Australians how much they rely on their farmers to feed them but that’s another story. We have all have choices, so farmers like everyone have to get on the front foot because nobody is forcing us to farm.

Chair of the inquiry, Dick Adams (Member for Lyons, Tasmania), on the importance of agricultural public policy to be more strategic in future with respect to assistance to farm businesses:

Putting our resources into black holes is not where the future is and not a good way to spend the public dollar. I think the Australian people would rather be assisting enterprises that have a business plan looking to the future; that will adapt to climate change and the issues that confront us in the next 20 to 30 years. We’ve also got to look at the opportunities at the enterprise level and look at where we’re going in a world sense. I think farmers will get left behind if they don’t adapt and look for opportunities. Dick Adams

This post is about farmers taking their destiny in their own hands and I want to hear from those farmers so I can share their story. Today my feature farmer is James Walker.

James with two of his daughters

I am lucky enough to know James. Young Farming Champion Bron Roberts and I enjoyed James company over dinner in Brisbane in December and what a dynamic, exciting and far sighted young man he is.

James is a Nuffield Scholar and Western Queensland mixed enterprise wool grower grazing 15,000 sheep at Longreach. You will find a great story on James and his farming operation here

James has even mixed it with royalty a number of times with he and his wife Manny among a group of four young families representing the next generation of graziers invited to meet the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall during the Longreach leg of their Australian visit in November 2012.

Yes and doesn’t Queensland remember 2012 well – the year of the floods. Sadly again Queensland farmers like many in NSW and Victoria are living through another nightmare weather event caused this time by not enough water, with Queensland having the hottest year on record in 2013

James Walker and his family far doing it very tough but he is not standing still. James and his wife Manny are using social media and the Agrihive website they have set up to help tackle the big challenges around farming including drought.

The Agrihive team commitment says it all

If you have a concern problem or opportunity in Agriculture, Agrihive does not sleep until we are on the other side of the concern, problem or opportunity.

Agrihive will move mountains to achieve business, lifestyle and agricultural goals.

Our team is committed, exposed heavily to Agriculture and will provide results.

James has fire in his belly and he is in it for the long haul. James is also a person who DOES care about other people and I can assure you when you read his story you will be just as impressed with this young man as everyone who meets him

This is the Agrihive story in James words…..

Many efforts have been made to fundraise and subsidise the farmers that are facing annihilation. The results of these efforts are limited and lack long term strategy for a weak and fading industry that is exposed to tactical policy changes that lack foresight and courage from our leaders.

Farming needs delivery of business strategies on ground right now that can help and this initiative aims at doing everything possible to deliver opportunities going forward. With no stock, no grass, no rain forecasted and no money in the bank it paints a very grim picture around the kitchen table at most farms around Australia.

We need a revolution in Agriculture, we need to enable farmers to navigate and recover from this complex situation. We need high levels of information that is not rhetoric and long winded, we need result focussed information right now to help us. We do need to accumulate suggestions for long term policy but we need to create opportunities now before another farmer quits our system. That is why we have created Agrihive.

Agrihive is a site that requires you to join, provide real ideas, concepts and results for right now, which will be delivered to the farmers. It honours the resilience of the farming community in desperate unchartered times. As famers we want to take control of the situation.

We want to dust ourselves off and continue being the best producers of food in the World and contribute to the Australian Economy. We are not whinging we are just searching for answers and we are becoming desperate for them. which is best achieved through training, awareness and interaction.

As an example the first instalment of Agrihive is to provide a free 25 minute audio you can access by clicking here. The file contains interviews with three experts in the fields of marketing and feed and fodder analysis.

Farmers will learn what other leading producers have learnt;

How to buy fodder like a professional
The 3 key measurements for effective feeding
How to compare different fodder costs
2014 Cattle market expectations from a marketing expert

Click here to access nowDrought, Fodder, Finance and Future

Agrihive has a suite of information and templates to take control of your business in the drought.

We are progressively covering the following topics and have a growing Agricultural business community.

Savings

There are many layers of cost reduction in Agriculture, Agrihive will uncover spending through key expert eyes and unlock some new discoveries for farmer savings.

Production

The ability to accumulate revenue generating assets is the key to recovery from drought. Agrihive reveals a systematized approach to business performance.

Possibilities

See the Possibilities

Please join now for updates at www.agrihive.com and contribute to real change.

Agrihive will create new opportunities and levels of thinking; revealing new options.

There have only been 500 free CDs recorded so please act now and feel free to pass this message on to your friends and contacts as they may get something good out of Agrihive as it is committed to a better future in Farming.

You can download your complimentary recording by clicking here

“Let our advance worrying become advance thinking and planning” (Winston Churchill).

When I think of James and the conversations I have had with him I think of the quote

“THERE are two types of people in this world – the doers and the don’ters.

Doers accept they can create the life they want and then come up with a plan to make it happen. James has got a goal, he has got a plan, he is adapting and look for opportunities.

He is doing what a lot more people need to be doing and that is getting of their backsides and making it happen.

I invite you to join Agrihive now for updates at www.agrihive.com and contribute to real change.

Beef Central have also covered this story here

Lets not forget people are doing it tough and everybody needs a hand from time to time. This is a great organization doing just that and all Australians can lend a helping hand by supporting them. Visit their website here

In times of peace plan for war

UK dairy farmer and Nuffield Scholar Joe Delves at the Dairy Research Foundation Symposium in Kiama

Over the years I have been on lots of dairy industry conference committees and I must admit I often found this a very frustrating exercise. VERY FRUSTRATING

Why you ask?

Well in today’s world if you genuinely want to farm for the long haul you have to get everything right. By everything right I mean farms in the 21st century have to be socially acceptable, environmentally friendly as well as financially rewarding.

Up until the Dairy Research Symposium conference in Kiama last week the dairy industry totally shied away from discussions about relationships with their value chain partners and customers. Dairy farmers it seemed (or so previous conference committee members I had worked with thought) didn’t want to listen to anybody talk about anything beyond the farm gate. It was cows,cows,cows.

So to hear the Chairman of Dairy Australia get up at the dinner and say he and the CEO of Dairy Australia thought the conference was the best conference they had ever attended and the reason why was in particular the social content of the program made my heart sing.

One of the speaker highlights was UK Farmer and Nuffield scholar Joe Delves who farms in the south east of England.

I had the pleasure of hosting Joe for a day when he was in OZ in early January. Joe is all personality and his presentation truly resonated with everyone in the room

Lets have a look at some of the insightful things Joe had to say