YOUNG farmers Dan Grist and Holly Gilbert have launched the fourth series of their podcast ‘It’s in our Roots’, which showcases inspiring people with roots in the countryside.

The fourth series of the podcast launches on Tuesday 14th February, where Holly and Dan are joined by popular farming YouTuber and BBC presenter Tom Pemberton, alongside his wife Joanna.

The podcast was shortlisted for ‘Digital Innovator of the Year’ at last year’s British Farming Awards and was praised for its ability to showcase the realities of different rural careers.

Dan Grist, one of the hosts of the podcast and Vice Chair of Devon YFC, said: 'Having started the podcast during the pandemic, it’s mad to think we are about to launch series 4! Each guest has had such a different story, and yet they all share the same passion for the British countryside.'

Previous guests on the podcast have ranged from Paralympian Sammi Kinghorn to TV Vet Dr James Greenwood, as well as farming social media influencers The Chief Shepherdess and Danny the Farrier.

As well as Tom and Joanna Pemberton, the fourth series will feature a collaboration with the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (YFC) to showcase the very best of YFC at their National Achiever Awards, as well as an interview with TV explorer and survivalist Ness Knight.

Holly Gilbert added: 'It’s amazing to see how much the podcast has grown over the past year. My favourite moments have always been when recording in-person interviews at various locations across the country, including the UK’s largest farm machinery show LAMMA, and also Devon County Show.

'More highlights include interviewing 5th generation cider maker Eleanor Thatcher, who gave us a behind-the-scenes tour of Thatcher’s Cider, as well as talking to the CEO of Farms for City Children. It has been great speaking to the inspiring people behind the businesses and charities we all know and love.'

Although the podcast is generally fun and light-hearted, Dan and Holly are not afraid to tackle difficult topics on the podcast. From the lack of diversity in rural areas with Kenyan-born pig farmer Flavian Obiero, to the importance of talking about your mental health with dairy farming therapist Naomi Wright.

Dan continued: ‘Whilst having a laugh on the podcast is a top priority, it has been such a privilege to use it as an opportunity to talk about some of the issues that affect us all.

'One of my highlights so far has been a collaborative episode with the farming charity R.A.B.I (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution) to help signpost people to their vital services. Holly and I were blown away at the extent of their work.'

Episodes are set to be published every Tuesday. You can subscribe and listen for free by searching ‘It’s in our Roots’ on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts.