I’m Leonie Smith. I am a former broadacre farmer, casual academic at UWA, and host of Agriculture from the Ground Up.

My love of agriculture started on the south coast of Western Australia on the family farm. After farming with my husband for ten years, I realised I didn’t know half as much as I thought I did about the soil beneath our feet. That realisation led me to complete two Master’s degrees and I now deliver workshops and laboratories on soil, agriculture and the environment at the University of Western Australia. I have a special interest in soil organic carbon and soil amelioration.

This podcast was born from my own “I didn’t know what I didn’t know” moments. Agriculture from the Ground Up exists to bridge the gap between good university research and what actually works at the farm gate especially in WA’s sandy soils.

Each episode turns practical agricultural and soil science into clear, profitable decisions you can use on your farm.

Whether you’re listening in the ute, on the school run, or winding down after a long day, my goal is simple: help you fill the knowledge gaps that quietly cost you money, and turn better soil understanding into better bottom-line results.

And don't worry. I’m learning right alongside you and I’d love to hear your questions and ideas for future episodes.