The Oakbank Pod
Oakbank Pod explores the realities of modern land management through conversations with farmers, gamekeepers, ecologists and other industry experts. Each episode delves into practical, on-the-ground experience, from habitat creation to soil health and society. With honest discussion, expert insight and a grounded, collaborative tone, the podcast aims to share knowledge, spark ideas and support those working towards productive, resilient and wildlife-rich landscapes.
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Episodes
Friday Jan 30, 2026
Friday Jan 30, 2026
For our debut Oakbank podcast, Tim Furbank and Ryan Peach sit down at the Arundel Estate with Head Gamekeeper Charlie Mellor and Farm Manager Conor Haydon, exploring what it really takes to run a successful wild grey partridge project in the UK.
The conversation lifts the lid on the working relationship between farming and gamekeeping, how habitat and predator management intertwine, what stewardship and SFI mean in practice and the crucial role of having a long-term vision. Charlie and Connor share refreshingly honest insights into collaboration, pitfalls, practical decisions and the realities of delivering both productive farming and thriving wildlife.
The episode also includes a feature from GWCT’s Megan Lock on the importance of the Big Farmland Bird Count.