Best Colin Hurst Podcasts (2025)

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When farming meets red tape: David Clark and Colin Hurst on the consent crisis | EP 54 47:08

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8d ago47:08

47:08

Farmers across New Zealand are voicing growing frustration with regional councils, resource consents, and the cost of compliance. Nothing has captured that frustration quite like Canterbury farmer David Clark’s recent Facebook post, which outlined his family’s ordeal in trying to renew a straightforward consent for their mixed arable, seed and live…

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Unpacking the Alliance–Dawn Meats proposal with Professor Keith Woodford | EP 57 23:48

3h ago23:48

23:48

Alliance Group farmer-shareholders are facing one of the biggest decisions in New Zealand’s red meat sector in decades: whether to approve a proposed $250 million joint venture with Europe’s Dawn Meats Group. In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Keith Woodford, an experienced agribusiness commentator and former Lincoln University professor, t…

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Fonterra and the future | EP 56 35:38

7h ago35:38

35:38

Fonterra is at a crossroads, with its proposed sale of Mainland Group raising big questions for its farmer suppliers, the wider dairy sector, and everyday consumers. In this episode, we’re joined by Matt Montgomerie, a senior analyst at Forsyth Barr, to unpack what’s really going on. Matt explains Fonterra’s financial position, the rationale behind…

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‘How are you really doing?’ — Bex Green’s mental health story | EP 55 49:44

3d ago49:44

49:44

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week, and North Canterbury dairy farmer Bex Green is opening up about one of the toughest periods of her life. Between a severe injury, raising three kids, and running a 1000-cow contract milking operation with her husband, Bex also stepped up to lead farmers in her region. But behind her public role, she was struggling…

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Making the most of strong farmgate returns | EP 53 24:13

20d ago24:13

24:13

Dairy, beef and sheep farmers are all enjoying strong returns right now – but as every farmer knows, the good times don’t last forever. In this episode, Federated Farmers dairy chair Karl Dean shares practical advice on how to turn today’s profits into long-term security. Karl explains why reducing debt should be front of mind, what types of on-far…

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How farmers can unlock better banking deals | EP 52 29:33

27d ago29:33

29:33

Scott Wishart from agricultural loan broker NZAB joins us to discuss how farmers can take more control of their banking outcomes. Scott shares practical advice on how to become “bank-ready,” what information to gather beyond budgets and financials, and how a well-prepared farmer can unlock a better deal. He also explains the value of engaging multi…

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Can rural media survive? | EP 51 38:33

1M ago38:33

38:33

Farmers rely on rural media to stay informed – but shrinking print runs, social media, and changing news habits are putting pressure on traditional outlets. In this episode, we sit down with Dean Williamson, CEO of AgriHQ and publisher of Farmers Weekly, to discuss the challenges facing rural media. We explore the changing media landscape, how youn…

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Will farmers finally get a fair deal on banking? | EP 50 37:03

1M ago37:03

37:03

Farmers have long been saying they’re getting a raw deal from the banks – higher interest rates, tougher lending rules, fewer options, and growing pressure around environmental reporting. That’s why Federated Farmers pushed so hard for a rural banking inquiry. Now, after months of hearings and submissions, the Finance and Expenditure Committee has …

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Medicare 2025: Why This Year is Critical for Your Coverage 11:33

2M ago11:33

11:33

Medicare is already complex, but 2025 is bringing some of the biggest shifts in years. Premiums, prescription drug costs, and deductibles are all moving, and with millions of baby boomers entering the system, retirees could feel the impact more than ever. To help cut through the confusion, Colin is talking again with Medicare Expert, Alex Sieler. A…

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Carbon forestry crisis – the view from Southland | EP 49 30:26

2M ago30:26

30:26

Carbon forestry is spreading fast, and the impacts are becoming impossible to ignore for farmers in regions like Southland. In this episode, we’re joined by Dean Rabbidge, Southland Federated Farmers meat & wool chair, to talk about what he’s seeing on the ground. He describes the heartbreak of whole, highly productive farms being converted into pi…

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Medicare Overwhelm? Enrollment, Deadlines & Avoiding Mistakes with Expert Alex Sieler 11:40

2M ago11:40

11:40

If you’re turning 65 soon (or just did) you’ve probably been bombarded with Medicare mailers, ads, and “urgent” calls telling you to “act now.” It’s overwhelming, and for many people, it’s hard to tell what’s legitimate and what’s just marketing. In this episode, Colin talks with Medicare advisor Alex Sieler about how to filter out the noise, under…

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Mental health on the land – what’s the plan? | EP 48 49:17

2M ago49:17

49:17

In this episode, we dig into the mental health challenges facing farmers and rural communities, and ask: is the support on offer actually working? Matt Doocey, New Zealand’s first dedicated Minister for Mental Health, joins us to discuss what’s changing, what still needs to, and whether rural voices are truly being heard. Federated Farmers presiden…

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Medicare Advantage or Supplement: What’s Right for You? 8:33

2M ago8:33

8:33

In this episode, Colin welcomes back Medicare Advisor Alex Sieler to unpack one of retirement’s most common questions: Should you choose Medicare Advantage or a Medicare Supplement? What’s the real difference? Is a $0/month plan too good to be true? And why do some retirees still choose to pay more? Alex walks through the pros and cons of both opti…

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Medicare Made Simple: Choose the Right Plan (and Skip the Noise) with Alex Sieler 22:08

2M ago22:08

22:08

If Medicare feels like a maze of mailers, fine print, and frustration, you’re not alone. This week, Colin sits down with Alex Sieler of Precise Insurance Advisors to help cut through the noise. With over 15 years in the Medicare space and clients in more than 38 states, Alex brings clear, practical insights for anyone approaching or currently navig…

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Hugh Jackson on farming, balance and backing himself | EP 47 42:49

2M ago42:49

42:49

A month since he won the prestigious NZ Young Farmer of the Year Award, we catch up with Hugh Jackson to find out how he’s feeling about the win and get to know a bit better. We dig into his background, his personal goals, his mental health story, his passion for the Young Farmers organisation, and what makes him tick. We also talk about winning th…

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Blocked and banned: why farmers are fed up with the EPA | EP 46 21:58

2M ago21:58

21:58

In this episode we’re digging into a hot topic in the primary sector – regulation of agrichemicals and the role of the Environmental Protection Authority, or EPA. David Birkett, Federated Farmers’ biosecurity spokesperson and arable chair, has been at the coalface of conversations around agrichemical approvals. We discuss what’s going wrong with th…

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Social Security Cuts by 2034? What You Need to Know 8:14

3M ago8:14

8:14

Is Social Security really running out of money, or are the headlines more dramatic than the data? In this episode, Colin is joined by Social Security expert Hamilton Morales to break down the 2024 Social Security Trustee Report and what it means for retirees, workers, and the future of the Social Security system. The big takeaway: if no changes are…

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Red meat pressure points and potential solutions | EP 45 35:53

3M ago35:53

35:53

In this episode, we take a hard look at where things are at for the red meat and wool sectors right now, including what’s driving the strong red meat returns, but also pain points like processor viability, falling stock numbers, productive farmland going into carbon forestry, and the ongoing struggles for wool growers. Richard Dawkins, Federated Fa…

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Big Changes to Social Security for Ohio State Workers 5:25

3M ago5:25

5:25

Big changes just hit Social Security, and a lot of people don’t even realize they’re going to be impacted. To help make sense of it all, Colin sits down with special guest and Social Security expert, Hamilton Morales, to walk through what you need to know. He explains the major changes made by the Social Security Fairness Act of 2024, which officia…

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Avoiding legal trouble on farm: what every farmer should know | EP 44 29:35

3M ago29:35

29:35

Legal issues on the farm can be stressful — and often dealt with only when things go wrong. In this episode, you'll hear from lawyer Simon Middlemiss about the most common legal and employment problems farmers face, and how to avoid them. From staff contracts to handling disputes, Simon shares practical tips all farmers should know, plus the basics…

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The #1 Social Security Myth (That Could Cost You Thousands) 5:42

3M ago5:42

5:42

In this episode, Colin welcomes back Social Security expert Hamilton Morales to bust what he says is one of the biggest myths surrounding Social Security spousal benefits- and it’s a costly one! Many people believe a spouse automatically receives half of the other’s benefit. Not only is that often wrong, but misunderstanding the rules could mean lo…

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Putting the success back into succession with Peter Templeton | EP 43 1:04:37

3M ago1:04:37

1:04:37

We’re continuing the theme of farm succession by chatting with Peter Templeton, a fifth-generation Southland dairy farmer, who spent five months travelling the USA and Europe as a Nuffield scholar, researching what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to farm succession. He met with over 100 farmers, their advisors, and industry experts to paint …

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The Biggest Social Security Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them) with Hamilton Morales 17:37

3M ago17:37

17:37

You’ve been contributing to Social Security for your entire working life, but do you have peace of mind about when to start drawing from it? In this episode, Victor sits down with Hamilton Morales, a Social Security expert who breaks down the real decision points that come with turning on your Social Security benefit. He unpacks some of the biggest…

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Protecting the most important asset on your farm | EP 42 43:14

3M ago43:14

43:14

When we talk about assets on farm, we often think of land, livestock, and machinery. But there’s one asset that’s even more important — and that’s you, the farmer. Farming can be risky, physically and financially, and too often we overlook how vulnerable we are when we don’t have the right support in place for ourselves and our families. In this ep…

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Bridging the farm ownership gap with Sarah How | EP 41 41:15

4M ago41:15

41:15

Farm ownership is becoming harder for young Kiwis, and traditional succession is no longer working for many farming families. In this episode, we hear from Sarah How, founder of Landify, about the challenges and opportunities in farm succession and ownership. Sarah explains why succession is getting tougher, explores alternative ownership models, a…

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Are You Letting Headlines Hijack Your Portfolio? 3:31

4M ago3:31

3:31

We all know the news can shape how we feel, but what if it’s also shaping how we invest? In this episode, Victor raises a crucial concern: how biased or emotionally charged headlines may sway investor behavior and cause short-term market volatility. Drawing from his own daily routine of listening to stock market reports, Victor explains why investo…

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How to Enjoy Life Now Without Ruining Your Retirement 5:49

4M ago5:49

5:49

“How can I enjoy some of my life and my money while I’m young and healthy, without messing up my retirement?” That’s the question one client recently asked, and in this episode, Colin breaks it down. He shares why delaying joy until later doesn’t always make sense, and how smart planning can help you design a lifestyle that balances now and later. …

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Are we ready for foot-and-mouth disease? | EP 40 36:35

4M ago36:35

36:35

Foot-and-mouth disease is one of the most serious animal diseases globally, and while New Zealand has never had an outbreak, the risk is very real. If the disease were to make it to our shores the consequences would be huge for our rural communities and the wider economy. To help us understand the risks, the plans in place, and what farmers need to…

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Knowing What Investments You Own and Why 6:33

4M ago6:33

6:33

Investing isn’t just about spotting good opportunities; it’s about choosing the right ones for you. In this episode, Colin and Victor share a real-life story of a client who nearly put money into what he believed was a safe utility bond, but it turned out to be a high-risk oil and gas venture. Fortunately, he reached out for a second opinion and av…

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What’s next for agri-tech in New Zealand? | EP 39 41:25

4M ago41:25

41:25

Gallagher’s Sarah Adams returns to explore the latest in agri-tech, from virtual fencing to smart ear tags and integrated data systems. She shares insights from U.S. farming trends, discusses adoption barriers, and offers practical advice for tech-curious Kiwi farmers keen to boost efficiency and make smarter on-farm decisions. Links Virtual fencin…

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5 Ways Wishful Thinking Can Damage Your Retirement 24:10

4M ago24:10

24:10

A little hope is good for the soul, but when it comes to retirement planning, wishful thinking can lead to serious financial mistakes. In this episode, Colin and Victor walk through five common examples of wishful thinking that can quietly damage your retirement and how you can build a plan that protects your future instead of relying on luck. Beli…

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Farm succession planning with Joe Morgan | EP 38 34:54

4M ago34:54

34:54

Farm succession—it’s one of the biggest challenges facing New Zealand’s rural families. How do you pass the farm on to the next generation in a way that’s fair, makes financial sense, and keeps relationships intact? Our guest today is Joe Morgan, an accountant and director at GFA in Te Awamutu, who is back by popular demand. Joe's here to cover the…

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SOS: Save Our Sheep | EP 37 38:11

5M ago38:11

38:11

New Zealand’s sheep population has plummeted from over 70 million in the 1980s to just 25 million today—and the decline is accelerating. In this episode, we speak with Toby Williams, national meat and wool chair and a sheep farmer himself, about the alarming state of the red meat sector. What’s driving the loss—land use changes, climate policy, far…

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Is 2025 a Bad Time to Retire? 5:02

5M ago5:02

5:02

Thinking about retiring in 2025 but feeling uneasy about market volatility, layoffs, or rising taxes? You’re not alone. That’s why Colin dives into one of the most common (and important) questions he’s hearing right now: Is this a bad time to retire? Whether you’re on the brink of retirement or still a few years out, this episode offers calm, pract…

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Contract Milking Survey – discussing the results with Brendan Attrill and Louise Gibson | EP 36 53:05

5M ago53:05

53:05

A recent contract milking survey has sparked debate across the dairy industry. In this episode, we speak with survey creator Louise Gibson, and Brendan Attrill, a long-time industry leader and Federated Farmers farm owner representative, to unpack the key findings. We explore why the survey was conducted, what the results reveal, and how both sides…

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Saving vs. Planning: The Retirement Mistake That Could Cost You Thousands 5:08

5M ago5:08

5:08

You might think your 401k is your retirement plan, but what if that mindset is setting you up for financial frustration later? In this eye-opening episode, Victor unpacks a common misunderstanding that could cost retirees thousands: confusing retirement accounts with actual retirement planning. Victor explains why treating your pre-tax retirement a…

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Nailing Moving Day: tips to start the season well | EP 35 26:26

5M ago26:26

26:26

One of the biggest days in the dairy farming calendar, Moving Day, is fast approaching. It’s a day full of change and challenge as thousands of farmers, workers, and their families head off to start a new chapter on a new farm. It’s a big logistical job, but there’s also the emotional, professional and relationship side to think about too. So, how …

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“Is It Bad to Leave My 401k Where It Is?” 6:04

5M ago6:04

6:04

If you’re approaching retirement, it’s critical to make sure your 401k is working as efficiently as possible, not holding you back. In this episode, Colin and Victor tackle a common question: should you leave your 401k where it is when you retire? They walk through why leaving your account behind might limit your investment choices, expose you to h…

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Turning the tide on the anti-farming agenda with Claire Taylor | EP 34 51:30

5M ago51:30

51:30

Global scrutiny of farming is rising — but how can farmers respond? Journalist and Nuffield Scholar Claire Taylor has travelled the world exploring how agricultural sectors are responding to criticism and shifting public perception. In this episode, she shares lessons from her journey and offers practical advice for New Zealand farmers seeking a st…

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Retirement Assassins: 5 Silent Killers of Your Financial Future 25:44

6M ago25:44

25:44

The thing about assassins in the real world is that they’re sneaky and you don’t see them coming. The same is true for the silent killers of your retirement plan. In this episode, Colin and Victor reveal the most dangerous “retirement assassins” that can quietly derail decades of planning if you’re not on guard. From reacting emotionally during a m…

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Protecting farmland for future generations – a deep dive into QEII Trust | EP 33 32:29

6M ago32:29

32:29

One of the best ways for farmers to protect special areas of their land is covenanting with the QEII National Trust. But what does that actually mean in practice? What are the benefits and challenges? And what does the future of covenanting look like?" Our guest for this episode is Dan Coup, CEO of the QEII Trust, who explains everything from the h…

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Side Gigs That Make Retirement More Fun (and More Secure) 4:08

6M ago4:08

4:08

For many retirees, a little extra income can go a long way, and it doesn’t have to feel like “work.” In this episode, Colin shares fun, flexible side gigs that allow retirees to earn extra money while doing what they already enjoy. From working a few hours at the golf course to get free rounds, to pet-sitting for neighbors or selling handmade cards…

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Should You Own Gold or Silver? 3:01

6M ago3:01

3:01

"Should I own gold or silver?" It's a question that comes up often in financial planning conversations. But the real issue goes deeper- it's about portfolio diversification and ensuring every asset you own serves a clear, strategic purpose. Whether you’re holding metals, stocks, or any other asset class, this episode is a timely reminder that inves…

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Growing & protecting wealth: what farmers need to know in 2025 | EP 32 33:34

6M ago33:34

33:34

Financial adviser Michael Raynes returns to share fresh insights on building and protecting wealth in 2025. We cover savings, investments, debt, succession, and more—plus what today’s economic and global shifts mean for Kiwi farmers. Whether you're starting out or planning your exit, this wide-ranging chat is packed with practical advice. Note: not…

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Two HUGE Hidden Expenses in Your Portfolio 3:07

6M ago3:07

3:07

Are you unknowingly losing thousands of dollars in hidden retirement expenses? In this episode of The Happy Retirement Show, Colin Hurst and Victor Gray reveal the top two overlooked costs that can eat away at your savings: investment fees and taxes. Many retirees focus on rates of return, but fail to realize how much they’re paying in hidden broke…

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Money Conversations Couples Need to Be Having 17:31

7M ago17:31

17:31

What does it take to have a happy retirement? For couples, finances can be a major thorn in your side, but proper communication can help eliminate many of those money problems. In this first episode of The Happy Retirement Podcast, Colin Hurst and Victor Gray dive into the key money questions that couples need to be asking each other. From spending…

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Protecting your farm: tackling rural crime | EP 31 27:43

7M ago27:43

27:43

Is rural crime getting worse? When do most thefts happen? And what can farmers do to make their property a harder target for criminals? Abby France from FMG Insurance joins us to share insights on rural crime trends, practical ways for you to reduce risk, and what to do if you become a victim of rural crime. Whether you manage thousands of hectares…

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Drought decisions: navigating tough times in sharemilking & contract milking | EP 30 39:01

7M ago39:01

39:01

Drought conditions are forcing sharemilkers, contract milkers and farm owners to make tough decisions, like drying off early, which can strain relationships and impact the future of the business. Some contract milkers are facing months of low income ahead. So, how do you get through these kinds of adverse events, protect the relationship and busine…

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More than tax: the benefits of a good rural accountant | EP 29 38:43

7M ago38:43

38:43

Our guest on this episode is Joe Morgan an accountant in Te Awamutu, Waikato, who does a lot of work with farmers. Joe is a director at GFA but previously had a career in rural banking. He also has a degree in Agri-Commerce majoring in farm management and rural valuation – so he’s a pretty good guy to have in your corner. Over the years, he’s seen …

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Different battles, same pressures: an army veteran’s advice for farmers | EP 28 1:10:09

8M ago1:10:09

1:10:09

A military veteran of 16 years, Tony Groves’ military and security career saw him deployed to Timor-Leste, Iraq and Afghanistan, where he honed his leadership skills in high-pressure environments. He now fronts Halo Training, a business that offers leadership and personal development training to help people, including farmers, build resilience. On …