Meet the Farmers

The Challenges of Farming Alone (and some dog training tips) - Damian Barson's story

Episode Summary

In this episode, Yorkshire new entrant farmer Damian Barson shares his powerful journey from dog trainer to sheep farmer, opening up about the emotional challenges of rural isolation and starting a new life in agriculture in his fifties. We explore the realities of mental health in farming, resilience through hardship and much more including lambing season 2025 for Damian.

Episode Notes

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, we focus on the inspiring story of Damian Barson — a man who made the life-changing decision to enter the world of sheep farming in his fifties. Formerly a professional dog trainer, Damian took his first steps into agriculture in 2021. Today, he manages a flock of around 150 ewes, including Mules, Swaledales, and other breeds.

Damian shares the highs and lows of his journey so far — from venturing into farming to facing the emotional toll of caring for a close friend and coping with the personal isolation that farm life can bring. This episode offers a raw and honest example of when farming life meets the challenges that life can bring in general.

🧠 Topics Discussed:

Prices and lambing 2025.

Damian’s journey from dog training to sheep farming.

Expanding his flock.

Mental health and tackling isolation in rural life.

Farm safety and the importance of having connections.

Dog training tips from Damian.

What’s next for Damian?

Image credit: Ryan Day

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

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About Ben and RuralPod Media

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

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