In conversation with – Ben Fogle

For this issue’s In Conversation With we managed to pin down writer, broadcaster and adventurer Ben Fogle – as you can imagine, for someone who prefers travelling the world to staying in one place, it wasn’t easy! We chatted to him about his travels and of course, his preferred way to eat eggs.

In conversation with – Ben Fogle

Thanks for speaking to us, Ben, we’re glad to have caught you between trips! You’ve travelled to some incredible places around the world for the programme. How do you choose which wild people to visit? Do you find them, or do they find you?

"Sometimes we find them. Sometimes they come to us. We have been making the show for more than a decade and it broadcasts all around the world, I often get people messaging me with suggestions in their country."

You throw yourself into each location and bond with many of those you visit. How do you prepare and adapt for time spent in the wild on these trips?

"I have spent more than 25 years travelling the world. I have become very adaptable to most environments. I’m also a people person. I love meeting people and I am also a very curious person. "

In the years since New Lives in the Wild began, do you think the appetite for self-sufficiency is growing? We’ve certainly seen increasing numbers of people wanting to adopt hens, are we all craving a simpler way of life?

"I think people are slowing down. They have realised that we were going too fast and they are taking their foot off the pedal. So many people have decided to simplify their lives and start to enjoy it for the now. "

We know you’re a huge animal lover with a soft spot for Labradors. What pets do you currently have at home – and do they include any chickens?

"We have two dogs, Labradors called Swift and Storm, and three horses. We had two beautiful ducks called Salt and Vinegar but sadly they got taken by the fox. We are hoping to get some more this summer. "

Amongst all the noise on social media, you’re a voice of optimism and hope, encouraging kindness and sharing wisdom. How do you stay grounded in these turbulent times?

"I try to turn down the loud voice of hate that swirls like a tremendous storm and I listen to my heart. It’s easier to be kind than to be hateful."

Finally, do you have a favourite recipe involving eggs? We rehome up to 60,000 hens a year – that adds up to a lot of eggs being laid in gardens around the country so we’re always keen to share ideas!

"I love eggs on toast with some marmite on homemade bread. Yummy."