Roundwood cheviot farm

In the very first episode of our new series, The Step Into the Unknown , we’re joined by an inspiring Aberdeen Angus breeder whose journey proves that taking a chance can lead to incredible opportunities. From discovering her passion for Aberdeen Angus cattle, to studying in England, building an AI (Artificial Insemination) business and becoming deeply involved in one of the world’s most respected...

In this episode of Roundwood Cheviot Farm, we make the journey to Galway to discover that traditional farming is still very much alive and well in modern Ireland. Join us as we visit a unique farm where horses continue to play an important role in everyday farming life. We learn how horses are still being used to plough fields and top grass, blending generations of farming knowledge with modern ag...

In this week's update from Roundwood Cheviot Farm, we're taking a look at how the solar panel system is performing after six months in operation and whether it has lived up to expectations. We also discuss mixed grazing and ask the question many farmers are now debating – is mixed grazing becoming a thing of the past on many farms, or does it still have a place in modern sheep farming? P...

In this episode of the Roundwood Cheviot Farm Podcast, we sit down with Josh from Tír na nÓg Farm for an in-depth conversation around modern sheep farming, EasyCare sheep, performance breeding, practical farming systems, and the future direction of sheep farming in Ireland. The discussion covers the realities of breeding for efficiency, maternal traits, grass-based systems, hardiness, labour-savin...

Life on a sheep farm is never straightforward… we get into the real side of farm life, the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From the bond people build with pet lambs during lambing season, to the difficult realities farmers also face, this conversation gives an honest look into what life is really like behind the scenes on the farm. We also touch on boxing, rugby injuries, recovery, and...

In this episode on Roundwood Cheviot Farm, we sit down and talk through the real pros and cons of running a truck compared to a jeep and trailer setup. It’s something we’ve been weighing up for a long time on the farm, especially with the type of work we’re doing day-to-day. From practicality and running costs to ease of use and reliability, we go through where each setup makes sense and where it...

In this episode of Roundwood Cheviot Farm, Michael discuss the rise of social media in farming and ask the big question… Has farming content become too focused on clicks, views, and likes? With more young people learning about agriculture online than ever before, we look at: Is farming content still educational, or mostly entertainment now? Are influencers and creators showing the real side of far...

Lambing season is one of the most intense and demanding times on the farm… and survival is the only goal some days. In this episode from Roundwood Cheviot Farm, we talk through the reality of getting through lambing, what works, what doesn’t, and the “secret sauce” that helps keep everything moving when things get tough. From long nights and early mornings to the systems, mindset, and small habits...

In this important episode of the Roundwood Cheviot Farm Podcast, we discuss a topic that is becoming a serious concern for farmers across Ireland...the decline in large animal veterinary services in rural areas. For generations, local vets were a vital part of farming communities, supporting livestock health, assisting with difficult births, and ensuring animal welfare standards were maintained. H...

In this episode from Roundwood Cheviot Farm, we’re keeping hill farming positive and practical. We chat through takeaways from a recent hill farming conference, the importance of dip collection and flock health, and how we’re finishing lambs this season. There’s also a pre-lambing check-in from the yard, what we’re doing now to get ready, plus meal-feeding updates and a simple new technique we’ve...

This week on the Roundwood Cheviot Farm podcast, we’re catching up on all things farm life as winter ticks on. We chat about forestry and land use around the farm, the realities of managing ground and planning for the long term, and how it all ties into the bigger picture for sheep farming and sustainability. It’s also a very real week here with a few winter colds doing the rounds, so we’re sharin...

 In this episode, Michael and Evaine talk about settle back into routine after the holidays and what happened over Christmas period.  They chat about how things have been feeling on farms lately and the pressure many farmers have faced. From lambing and stock checks to general day-to-day farm talk, it’s an honest conversation about what’s really going on in the farm. Whether you’re out feeding, be...

Thanks for tuning in throughout 2025. In this episode, we’re chatting through scanning results and how mindset plays a big part in moving forward positively. We also break down the pros and cons of lambing in December and share a few laughs along the way — including an update on Chicken Nuggets. A relaxed start-of-year conversation from the yard. Support the show Follow Michael's & Roundw...

In this podcast, I took a trip to Mayo to learn more about Belclare sheep and explore how they can have a positive impact on a farm enterprise. We discuss the good, the challenges, and where Belclares can fit into a practical sheep farming system. This is an honest conversation based on real farming experience, looking at performance, management, and whether Belclare sheep are the right choice for...

In this episode, Michael sits down with Cathal O’Brien in Carnew to talk honestly about life in sheep farming. From the early mornings and long days to the setbacks, pressures, and the moments that make it all worthwhile, Cathal shares his real-life experience of working with sheep and what the job truly involves. There’s no glossing over the challenges — just a straightforward conversation about...

In this  episode, Michael had a good chat today about the joys of winter prep with sheep — everything from getting prescriptions for doses from the vet, to the “blue thing” situation up North in Northern Ireland, and of course lambing season creeping closer. I’ve also put up a quick poll about winter feeding for sheep, so jump in and let me know what you’re doing this year — keeping it simple, mix...

Short, punchy, natural — farming audience friendly. In this episode, I’m on the road to visit Samantha Ginty, a respected Dorset breeder and the woman behind the hard-working team that runs the Sheep Tunnel at the National Ploughing Championships. We chat all things Dorset sheep — breeding, lambing, flock management, choosing the right stock — and what really goes into running one of the busiest a...

This week we cover a bit of everything, from the Munster v Leinster clash and the lessons in rugby coaching for kids, to taking a well-needed week off social media. Plus, we share all about our trip to the Suffolk sale and the fantastic experience it turned out to be. A mix of sport, farming, and a little life balance chat thrown in! Support the show Follow Michael's & Roundwood Cheviot F...

In this episode from Roundwood Cheviot Farm, we dive into the heart of the season, from scanning to ewe and ram sales, and everything that’s been happening on the hill. We talk about flock performance, lambing prep, and the realities of managing stock through changing weather and market conditions. We're sharing what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what’s next as we move into the winter months. Wh...

It’s a busy one on Roundwood Cheviot Farm this week — a load of stone gets delivered for the yard, there’s a bit of positive mental health chat between jobs, and of course, some ram talk (because what’s a day on the farm without it?). We chat about: The small wins that keep you going when farm life gets hectic Why a good conversation can change your whole mindset Updates on the ram breeds and what...

In this episode, Michael and Evaine take listeners behind the scenes at Roundwood Cheviot Farm as breeding season approaches. From getting the shed ready and spreading dung, to preparing teasers and tipping rams, it’s all hands on deck. Evaine shares a light-hearted chat about her own few sheep, while the pair reflect on the recent Blessington sales and what’s ahead for the flock. A mix of practic...

In this episode of Roundwood Cheviot Farm, we dive into the essentials of pre-tipping preparation – from why we give mineral bowls, to the benefits they bring for flock health and breeding success. We’ll also chat about the Coolbreeder Sheep Show, share our experience from the day, and give a behind-the-scenes update on how Evain is getting more involved in our YouTube journey. Whether you’re a sh...

Join Michael and Evaine from Roundwood Cheviot Farm as they visit Linda in Galway for a hands-on day learning the art of working with sheep fleece. From hand-washing raw wool to transforming it into soft batts with the drum carder and delicate rolags using hand carders, Evaine gets an introduction to traditional fibre skills guided by Linda’s expertise. The day also included a tour of Linda’s farm...

In this episode, Michael takes a moment to say a big thank you – to our recent guests, to everyone we met at the Tullamore Show , and to all who’ve supported Roundwood Cheviot Farm so far. We give a special shout-out to fellow farming podcasts doing great work, share a few stories from the judging rings , and chat about the realities of farm life. Plus, we lift the lid on what’s to come – from mor...

In this episode, we sit down with Gillian Murphy  to dive into all things Macra na Feirme – the community, the opportunities, and the impact it has on young farmers across Ireland. Gillian shares her personal journey, the benefits of being involved in Macra, and how it continues to shape rural life and leadership. Whether you’re a Macra member, thinking about joining, or simply interested in Irish...