TuneIn Logo
Chewing The Cud at Halton Farms-logo

Chewing The Cud at Halton Farms

Business & Economics Podcasts

“Chewing The Cud”—Season 2 - Listen Now! After an incredible journey through our first season and the honour of being named the British Farming Award’s Dairy Farm of the Year, we’re thrilled to invite you back to Halton Farms, nestled near the picturesque town of Congleton in the heart of Cheshire. Join Karen, the passionate owner of Halton Farms, and Dave, our dedicated Herd Manager, as we continue to open the barn doors to the vibrant world of dairy farming. This season, we’re bringing you even closer to the action with heartwarming stories from Farmer Tom, insights from our hardworking team, and the daily adventures of our thriving family of over 800 healthy and happy crossbred cows. At Halton Farms, high animal welfare isn’t just a standard—it’s our core philosophy that has guided us to award-winning excellence. In each episode, we’ll delve deeper into the highs and lows of farm life, share the innovative practices that have set us apart, and explore the latest trends shaping the dairy industry. Whether you’re a fellow farmer, an industry enthusiast, or simply curious about life on the farm, there’s something for everyone in Season 2. Expect more behind-the-scenes glimpses, expert discussions, and, of course, plenty of moos from our beloved herd. So grab a seat in the barn and join Karen and Dave as we continue our journey, sharing udderly new insights from the fields of Halton Farms—because there’s always more to chew on in the world of dairy farming! Don’t forget to follow us on social media for updates and a closer look at our day-to-day—our girls are as social as ever and love sharing their stories with you! Chewing The Cud: Season 2—Karen & Dave Sharing Udderly New Insights from the Award-Winning Halton Farms! Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control
Play Button

Location:

United Kingdom

Description:

“Chewing The Cud”—Season 2 - Listen Now! After an incredible journey through our first season and the honour of being named the British Farming Award’s Dairy Farm of the Year, we’re thrilled to invite you back to Halton Farms, nestled near the picturesque town of Congleton in the heart of Cheshire. Join Karen, the passionate owner of Halton Farms, and Dave, our dedicated Herd Manager, as we continue to open the barn doors to the vibrant world of dairy farming. This season, we’re bringing you even closer to the action with heartwarming stories from Farmer Tom, insights from our hardworking team, and the daily adventures of our thriving family of over 800 healthy and happy crossbred cows. At Halton Farms, high animal welfare isn’t just a standard—it’s our core philosophy that has guided us to award-winning excellence. In each episode, we’ll delve deeper into the highs and lows of farm life, share the innovative practices that have set us apart, and explore the latest trends shaping the dairy industry. Whether you’re a fellow farmer, an industry enthusiast, or simply curious about life on the farm, there’s something for everyone in Season 2. Expect more behind-the-scenes glimpses, expert discussions, and, of course, plenty of moos from our beloved herd. So grab a seat in the barn and join Karen and Dave as we continue our journey, sharing udderly new insights from the fields of Halton Farms—because there’s always more to chew on in the world of dairy farming! Don’t forget to follow us on social media for updates and a closer look at our day-to-day—our girls are as social as ever and love sharing their stories with you! Chewing The Cud: Season 2—Karen & Dave Sharing Udderly New Insights from the Award-Winning Halton Farms! Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Language:

English

Episodes
Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

It’s About Fertility: Meet Mal, the Original AI Guy!

5/15/2025
Fertility might not be the flashiest topic on a dairy farm, but it’s the one that keeps everything else turning—and this week Dave hands the mic to the man who makes it happen. Meet Mal, the farm’s long-time AI technician, whose “walk-and-chalk” service starts at 4 a.m. every morning. From the shed gates he studies the herd’s body language, fresh tail-paint marks and data in the Uniform app before deciding which cows need checking, scanning or serving. Mal’s work is a true partnership. The whole Halton team watches the herd throughout the day, snapping photos and notes to a dedicated WhatsApp group so he can fine-tune tomorrow’s plan—because even the tiniest shift in diet, a hint of mobility issues, or a change in the weather can knock a cycle off course. The conversation widens into careers, too. Mal explains how he swapped a textile-factory job for seven-day weeks on the fertility circuit, why he still loves relief-milking, and how his son Calum has joined the family business. Passion, persistence and that 4 a.m. alarm have grown his one-man Land Rover-and-flask outfit into a trusted service for dozens of farms. He still relishes the job’s variety, the quiet moments in the parlour and, most of all, the buzz when another pregnancy check comes back positive. By the end of the episode you’ll understand why fertility is the quiet engine of a year-round calving dairy, and why a good technician is worth his weight in milk. Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:26:42

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

It’s About Silage: Cutting It Fine

5/8/2025
The first cut of silage season has arrived, and just about everything else at Halton Farms seems to grinds to a halt until the grass is safely in. Climb into the tractor cab with Karen as she rides shotgun beside Farmer Tom, who’s busy mowing lush spring grass that will feed the herd all winter long. While the mower hums, Tom admits he’s only now—eight‑and‑a‑half years later—getting comfortable with the GPS, monitors, buttons and auto‑steer that make modern silage work possible. He explains how a single rain shower can change sugar levels overnight, why chopping at just the right height protects next month’s regrowth, and how the perfect harvest window means happier, healthier cows when cold weather hits. It’s a mid‑field masterclass in timing, tech and teamwork, delivered in real time from the tractor seat. Grab your headphones, smell the fresh‑cut grass, and learn why silage season is the most important (and most frantic) moment on the dairy‑farm calendar. Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:37:21

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

It's About Farmer Tom... Again!

4/24/2025
Dave is finally back from his sunshine break! In this episode, Karen invites Farmer Tom back for another deep dive into British dairy—this time with Dave asking the questions. The conversation opens with a frank look at milk prices and why farmers remain price-takers rather than price-makers. Tom explains how better contracts, quotas, and smarter supply caps could steady both farm income and the national milk supply. From there, the trio unpacks the challenges of milk contracts and launches into a spirited debate on farm-assurance schemes: Tom insists inspections should start with the cows, not the filing cabinet. Staffing gets its moment too. At Halton Farms, both eager newcomers and seasoned hands start with the same trial day—an equal-opportunity test that quickly reveals who’s truly parlour-ready and willing to work the cows’ way, not their own. Tom also shares his reset-button approach to rough days—drop the guilt, fix the mistake, and move on—because sulking only makes tomorrow harder. Looking ahead, Karen and Tom discuss bringing agriculture back into the classroom and how high-tech farming could tempt the next generation. Their shared goal: leave British dairy stronger than they found it. It’s a warm, candid episode packed with big questions and bigger laughs. Pour a glass of milk, press play, and discover why price, people, and perspective matter more than ever on today’s dairy farms. Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:43:37

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

It’s About Farmer Tom

4/17/2025
In this heartfelt instalment, Karen sits down with her husband, Farmer Tom, for an unfiltered conversation about the life that chose him long before he could choose anything else. Born into agriculture and still as passionate (and, at times, as emotional) as ever, Tom traces his journey from childhood chores to running a diversified, modern dairy operation. Along the way, he reflects on how farming has evolved—tighter margins, changes in regulations, supermarket price pressure, and why careful planning, resilience, and a willingness to innovate matter more than ever. Tom also explains why careful resource management and operational efficiency are crucial to balancing productivity with responsibility; how the constant tug‑of‑war between cost and care shapes every decision on the farm. The episode wraps with Karen’s quick‑fire quiz, revealing lighter insights into Tom’s preferences, though he can’t help pausing for the occasional deep‑thinking moment. Tune in for a candid portrait of a farmer whose love for the land is matched only by his determination to steer it safely into the future. Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:42:12

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

It’s About Looking After the Calves… the Cutest Job on the Farm!

4/10/2025
In this episode, Karen goes solo while Dave takes a well-deserved break—and it’s all about the farm’s most precious residents: the calves! Join her on an early-morning journey through the ups, downs, and downright adorable moments of calf care. From tackling an unexpected birth to teaching two eager work experience students the ropes of rearing, Karen shines a light on the dedication and compassion that go into raising the next generation of healthy, happy cows at Halton Farms. If you’re ready for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most rewarding—and cutest—jobs on the farm, this is the episode for you! Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:18:05

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

It’s All About Feet (and a Little Banter!) with guest Leigh Fletcher

4/3/2025
In this episode of Chewing The Cud, Karen and Dave are joined by Leigh Fletcher of LMF Hoofcare, who visits the farm every two weeks to ensure the herd’s hooves are in top condition. From trimming techniques to preventative care, Leigh’s knowledge, experience, and genuine love for our cows shine through, making him an invaluable member of Halton Farms’ wider team. And when you put Dave and Leigh together in the parlour, you’re guaranteed some friendly banter along the way! Tune in to learn why hoof health is so essential to the cows’ overall well-being, and get an inside look at how a dedicated hoof trimmer keeps Halton Farms on solid footing. Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the most important (but often overlooked) aspects of modern dairy farming. See more of Leigh and LMF Hoofcare on Facebook and Instagram Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:49:48

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

It’s About Milking: Rise and Shine - Dave’s 4:30am Milking Routine

3/28/2025
In this Episode of Chewing The Cud, Karen and Dave spotlight one of the most crucial—and intriguing—parts of dairy farming: the milking process. Milking is Dave’s favourite topic, and for good reason: as a hands-on Herd Manager, he’s in the parlour more often than most, which gives him a unique perspective on herd health and productivity. Dave and Karen discuss why he chooses to personally milk so frequently, how this daily routine helps him keep a keen eye on the cows’ well-being, and what actually happens behind those parlour doors at the crack of dawn. Then, Dave treats listeners to an audio tour of the 4:30am milking session, bringing the sounds, rhythms, and insights of a bustling parlour straight to your ears. Whether you’re a dairy enthusiast or just curious about what goes on during those pre-sunrise hours, this episode offers an inside look at the dedication, skill, and passion that make Halton Farms run smoothly—one milking at a time. Don’t miss your chance to get up close and personal with the heart of farm life! Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:39:49

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

It’s About The MilkShack

3/21/2025
In this week’s episode of Chewing The Cud, Karen and Dave give you an inside look at all the latest happenings on the farm. They’ll also spill the story behind Smoothy—the friendly face running The MilkShack—whose nickname has a delightful backstory of its own. And speaking of The MilkShack, Karen shares how this nearly 10-year-old venture came to be. Born out of the challenging days of 2016, when dairy prices fell well below the cost of production, The MilkShack proved to be a lifeline for Halton Farms and a rallying point for the community. Tune in to learn how adversity sparked innovation, why Smoothy’s role is so vital to the farm’s ongoing success, and what keeps The MilkShack going strong after all these years. It’s a heartwarming, behind-the-scenes peek into the resilience—and people—keeping Halton Farms at the forefront of dairy. Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:42:03

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

It's About People... (But Really it is About the Cows)

3/14/2025
In this second installment of Chewing The Cud, Karen and Dave recap the highlights (and hiccups) from a busy week at Halton Farms. They also unveil a fun new way to connect with the herd—by naming one of our newest arrivals through the “Name a Calf” scheme at the Milkshack! Plus, Dave tackles the big question, “What’s the hardest part of the job?”, and his surprising answer might just make you look at farm life in a whole new light. Tune in for real-world insights, plenty of laughs, and an inside look at how people (and cows) keep the farm ticking. Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:45:28

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

We're Back - Meet Dave & What's been happening at Halton Farms

3/7/2025
Welcome to the first episode of our brand-new season of “Chewing The Cud,” recorded straight from Halton Farms near Congleton in beautiful Cheshire! We’re kicking things off with a look at how life on the farm has evolved over the past 12 months—and there’s plenty to share. What to expect in this episode A Year in Review: Catch up on the latest happenings since our last season and how the farm has grown. Introducing Dave: Meet our new Herd Manager (and co-host!), who has jumped right into life at Halton Farms and brings a fresh perspective to the team. Catching Up with the Cows: Get the inside scoop on how our beloved herd of 900+ crossbred cows are thriving, plus some stories about the day-to-day fun and challenges. A Special Milestone: Find out about a recent achievement that has everyone at Halton Farms feeling proud and excited for the future—an industry nod that took us by surprise! Tune in as we set the stage for all that’s to come in Season 2. Whether you’re a returning listener or joining us for the first time, subscribe now so you won’t miss a single episode of “Chewing The Cud.” There’s always more to learn, more to share, and more to chew on in the world of dairy farming! Follow Halton Farms Social Cow's Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:42:17

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Season 2 - We're Back Trailer!

3/5/2025
Join us as we kick off Season 2 with Karen—our passionate farm owner—and Dave—our dedicated Herd Manager—right here at Halton Farms in the heart of Cheshire. From our award-winning dairy practices to the daily life of our 900 thriving cows, this opening episode sets the stage for an unforgettable season packed with behind-the-scenes stories, heartwarming moments, and plenty of moos! Whether you’re new to our herd or a returning listener, be sure to subscribe so you won’t miss a single adventure. There’s always more to discover—and more to chew on—in the world of dairy farming. See you in the barn! Follow Halton Farms Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:00:40

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

How do we get up at 4am!

5/21/2024
In this episode Karen & Leah answer a question they get asked a lot 'how do you get up at 4am?'. In farming it isn't really a choice, it is all about our animals, however, there are benefits to what some might think of an early start and perhaps it is something we should all be giving a go! If you have any questions about dairy farming, animal welfare or our team then please get in touch, email us at halton@haltonfarms.com and we can look to answer them on future episode of Chewing The Cud Follow Halton Farms Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:14:09

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Food Security, it's time to talk about it!

5/10/2024
In this enlightening episode of Chewing The Cud, hosts Karen and Leah discuss the critical and timely issue of food security within British farming. This episode is inspired by the timeless wisdom of a Chinese proverb, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now," this discussion explores the pressing challenges to help secure a sustainable future for food production in Britain. We encourage you to explore local options for sourcing your food and take the time to think about the choices you make. Planning to make changes not only benefits you but also contributes to a collective positive impact. Together, our efforts can secure a more sustainable future. Follow Halton Farms Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:30:46

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Karen & Vicky Willis Talk Bridging The Gap - Part 2

5/3/2024
In this episode Karen talks to Vicky Willis, founder of Bridging The Gap, Mind Matters about it's beginnings, ethos and how it has spread much further than Vicky's vision of just helping the Cheshire community. If you would like to find out more about Bridging The Gap, how to access, support then please visit www.btg-mindmatters.org Follow Halton Farms Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:54:35

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Karen & Vicky Willis Talk Mental Heath - Part 1

3/4/2024
In this special mini series of Chewing the Cud, Karen talk to Vicky Willis, founder of charity Bridging The Gap Mind Matters. In part 1 they talk about Vicky's mental heath journey, from the lowest points, experiences of mental heath support, the roles of friends and the gym. For more information on Bridging The Gap Mind Matters - www.btg-mindmatters.org Follow Halton Farms Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:35:23

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

We are going to have to change that name!

11/24/2023
Hello and welcome back to Chewing The Cud, the podcast that takes you behind the barn doors at Halton Farms. Today, we’re excited to delve into an initiative close to our hearts – 'We Are Social Cows.' In this episode, we’re exploring the unique project that’s been turning heads both in and out of the agricultural community. 'We Are Social Cows' isn’t just a catchy phrase; it's our way of bridging the gap between the farm and the wider public. This initiative is all about taking you on a digital journey through the day-to-day life of our dairy farm, using the power of social media. But why is this important, you might wonder? Well, in an era where agriculture and dairy farming are often misunderstood, we believe it’s crucial to open our gates (virtually, of course!) to the world. By sharing updates, stories, and the real essence of dairy farming online, we aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of where our food comes from. Through our platforms, 'We Are Social Cows' offers a transparent, engaging, and often entertaining window into the lives of our beloved cows and the hard work that goes into dairy farming. From adorable calf updates to insights into our sustainable practices, we’re here to showcase the true spirit of Halton Farms. So, whether you’re a fellow farmer, a curious consumer, or just an animal lover, join us as we discuss the impact, the challenges, and the surprising joys of being a socially savvy farm in today’s digital world. Let’s get moo-ving! Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:10:09

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Careers, Cows & Corpses - Part 2

11/17/2023
In part 2, we're delving deep into the worlds of 'Cows and Corpses.' Let's start with cows – the heart and soul of Halton Farms. Without these magnificent creatures, Halton Farms simply wouldn't exist. They are the cornerstone of our operation, deserving the utmost respect and care, and today, we celebrate their invaluable contribution to our lives. Then, we tackle a more challenging topic – what we refer to as 'corpses.' No, we’re not talking about actual corpses, but rather a metaphorical concept prevalent in business management – the removal of non-performers, or 'deadwood,' within a team. This is an aspect of the industry that, though tough, I personally find crucial to address. For a team to thrive, every member must align with our values, adapt to changes in the industry, and above all, respect our beautiful cows. Those who don't meet these standards are, unfortunately, not fit for our team. So, let's not delay any further. Dive in with us as we explore these integral parts of dairy farming. Grab your favourite dairy treat, and let's get started. Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:34:20

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Careers, Cows & Corpses - Part 1

11/10/2023
Welcome to our latest episode, where Karen and Leah dive into a topic that's as intriguing as it is crucial – 'Careers, Cows, and Corpses.' Before you jump to conclusions, rest assured, the 'corpses' in question aren't literal. Instead, they symbolise the often challenging aspect of business management – identifying and addressing non-performers within a team. This critical process is essential for the growth and development of any successful team. In this engaging first installment of our two-part mini-series, we delve into the diverse world of careers in farming. We'll explore the educational paths, the evolving role of technology, and the many facets that make up this dynamic industry. So, pour yourself a refreshing glass of milk and settle in for an enlightening journey through the fields of dairy farming and team management. Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:49:47

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

The Effects of TB on a Dairy Farm

10/27/2023
In this episode, Karen & Leah talk about TB on a Dairy Farm. It is a topic that has a massive effect on all at Halton Farms in the past few months. Sadly the cost is not only financial but more importantly an emotional one for the team at Halton Farms and the cows.For a closer look at the magic of Halton Farms and to keep up to date with all we do, make sure to follow us on our social media platforms—because, believe it or not, our girls are social cows! Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:27:52

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Introduction - A Dairy Farming Podcast

10/27/2023
In the very first episode of this brand-new podcast "Chewing The Cud", we introduce our hosts, Karen Halton and Leah Griffiths.Karen Halton, along with Farmer Tom Halton, owns Halton Farms, an award-winning dairy farm located near Congleton in Cheshire. Karen shares her personal journey of becoming a dairy farmer and offers a glimpse into the day-to-day operations of the farm.Leah, the Head of Young Stock at Halton Farms, recounts her path into this rewarding career and emphasises why it was the best decision she ever made!For a closer look at the magic of Halton Farms and to keep up to date with all we do, make sure to follow us on our social media platforms—because, believe it or not, our girls are social cows! Instagram: @haltonfarms TikTok: @haltonfarms Facebook: Halton Farms Facebook: Halton Farms Milk Shack Website: haltonfarms.com Visit us: Chance Hall Lane, Nr Congleton

Duration:00:12:01