CAP (Contemporary Issues in Agriculture Podcast)

How Is Your Milk Raised? Organic vs. Conventional Explained

In today's episode of CAP, we will be discussing organic versus conventional dairy cattle production. Bringing in experts from across the dairy industry, we will discuss the differences between the two production types. We then dive into topics such as animal welfare, milk quality, and environmental issues. In this episode, we will provide listeners with insight into what the production practices mean, the implications of choosing one over the other, and how these choices align with their personal beliefs and values.   
Guest bios:  
Dr. Larry Tranel - Iowa State University Agriculture and Natural Resources Dairy Field Specialist, organic dairy production expert  
Ryan Wolf – junior at Iowa State University studying animal science, from a 250-head dairy farm in northeast Iowa, a conventional dairy production expert  
Dr. Gail Carpenter – Iowa State University Animal Science Assistant Professor of Extension and Outreach, neutral perspective/general dairy industry expert  
Additional Links:  
For more information regarding organic certification, please visit: https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/organic-certification 
For more information regarding UC Davis research, please visit: https://clear.ucdavis.edu/explainers/organic-vs-conventional-how-do-dairy-and-beef-production-systems-impact-food-quality 
For more information regarding Mississippi State Extension, please visit: https://extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/publications/publications/P3493.pdf 

Moo or Not: Dairy vs. Plant Milks — Truth, Taste & Trends

On today's episode of Moo or Not: the Milk Discussion, Kylie and Makayla will be speaking with three guests about their take on dairy milk versus alternative milk. They all three have different viewpoints and will share their opinions on the products. We ask them multiple questions while they discuss what they think/believe. Our speakers are Gail, Marley, and Lacey. Gail prefers dairy milk, and Marley prefers alternative milk. Lacey is neutral on the products, but goes over the research she has done and why she uses both.
Guest Bio
Gail Carpenter - Assistant Professor of Extension and Outreach in the Department of Animal Science
Marley McKay - Student at Iowa State University, and is lactose intolerant
Lacey Kobriger - Student at Iowa State University studying HR

Green in the Concrete Jungle: Inside Urban Farming's Future

Urban farming is the practice of growing, processing, and distributing food in or around urban areas. Unlike traditional rural farming, urban farming utilizes available spaces within cities—such as rooftops, vacant lots, and community gardens—to grow food, often using innovative methods like vertical farming and hydroponics to maximize efficiency. Urban farming addresses several global challenges, including food insecurity, sustainability, and climate change. When food is produced locally, the carbon footprint associated with transporting food from rural areas to cities is reduced. 
Guest Biographies:
Clayton Mooney - Owner and operator of Clayton Farms, an urban farming salad establishment in Ames, IA. Grows and sells lettuce using eco-friendly practices
Cory Marth – Iowa State University student majoring in Accounting and Finance, who plans to return to his family’s row crop and hog operation after graduation. 
Blake Price – Owner and operator of Plant Nannies, offering services in knowledge and consulting of indoor plants. Plant Nannies provides plant care during vacation, helps with pest control, rehab, or maintenance. 
Links:
https://ideas.repec.org/a/spr/agrhuv/v16y1999i2p131-140.html 
https://books.google.com/books/about/The_Vertical_Farm.html?id=0DxTK0jW35sC 
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257511143_Urban_agriculture_of_the_future_An_overview_of_sustainability_aspects_of_food_production_in_and_on_buildings 
https://www.un.org/en/desa/2018-revision-world-urbanization-prospects 
https://www.ers.usda.gov/webdocs/publications/46393/7054_err97_1_.pdf 

Inside the Barn: Honest Conversation about Animal Welfare

This episode explores animal welfare through interviews with an animal welfare scientist, an animal-rights-minded graduate student, and a regular consumer, examining definitions of humane treatment, industry practices, and common misconceptions.
Guests discuss quality assurance programs, labeling and transparency, the difference between production systems, and how consumers can find reliable information to make informed choices.

Beyond Beef: Consumers, Lawmakers, and the Rise of Alternative Proteins

In this episode,  Madeline and Shay talk with industry professionals about alternative proteins — plant-based products, cultivated (lab-grown) meat. Joining the conversation  is Iowa Cattlemen's CEO discussing advocacy and the Meat Integrity Bill, an attorney sharing a longtime vegetarian’s perspective, and a plant-based R&D specialist explaining product development and consumer trends. The speakers will offer balanced viewpoints for anyone interested in how alternative proteins are reshaping food system
If you have any questions about  labeling, legislation, farmer and consumer concerns as well as nutritional issues surrounding alternative proteins, this episode is the right one for you. Our speakers will dive deep into these issues and provide information on resources for  you to learn  more about the topic.

Urban Farming: Rethinking Farmland and Food Security

In this episode experts discuss the loss of agricultural land while suggesting  practical ways to produce more food with less space. 
Listen to learn more about concrete and creative examples used to grow crops like  indoor farms in vacant restaurants, about technologies such as precision  agricultural  technologies  like drones and AI, and community-focused solutions that bridge urban and rural perspectives to build a more sustainable food future.

Decoding the Difference: Animal Welfare vs. Animal Rights

Have you ever wondered about the difference between animal welfare and animal rights? Are you someone who cares for animals and have had people ask you why you care?  Or are you someone who finds it hard to understand why other people care about animals? If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then tune in to this episode.
In this thought-provoking episode our hosts Quentin and Kaylee delve into the nuances between animal welfare and animal rights. This episode offers a comprehensive look into the ethical considerations surrounding animals in agriculture, fashion, and more. Join us as we explore the complexities of these topics with a diverse panel of experts. 

Unpacking Animal Welfare vs. Rights: A Dive into Divergent Perspectives

Welcome to the CAP Podcast! This episode sheds light on bridging the gap between opposing views and the importance of being informed, all while encouraging listeners to fearlessly dive into complex topics.
In this episode, we will hear from Quentin Slater, a recent Iowa State University graduate, shares insights from his podcast project exploring the deeper meanings of animal welfare and animal rights.  Quentin discusses the unique experiences gained from interviewing people with diverse opinions, including those from PETA and Iowa State University.
Discover how distinct views on agriculture and animal care were navigated, how the thoughtful dialogue was formed, and the perspectives that broadened Quentin and Kaylee Young's understanding of contentious topics.
 

The Manure Dialogue: Busting Myths & Unveiling Truths in Sustainable Farming

Join hosts Sydney Schnor and Jess Rodman as they welcome guests Carly, Ellie, veteran Iowa farmer Andy, environmental engineering student Jack Lacey, and Brian from the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers. This engaging episode of the Contemporary Issues in Agriculture podcast delves into the often misunderstood world of manure management, exploring the sustainable practices and regulations in place, and highlighting its crucial role in modern agriculture.
Listeners will gain insights into the intricacies and importance of adhering to manure application codes, the economic and environmental benefits of using manure over commercial fertilizers, and discover the ongoing innovations aimed at maximizing its utility. The discussion sheds light on common misconceptions held by the public, reinforcing the notion that proper manure management is essential for a sustainable agricultural future.

Unveiling Urban Farming: Graceline's Reflection

In this episode of the CAP Podcast, host Sydney Schnor welcomes Graceline Dahlhauser, a senior in agricultural communication, to discuss her first podcasting experience and the intriguing topic of urban farming. Graceline shares insights into the challenges and innovations of growing food in urban environments and discusses her interviews with diverse industry experts. The conversation highlights the growing role of urban agriculture, the complexities of food production in city settings, and the importance of understanding different perspectives in agriculture. Listen in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of farming and how students are engaging with these crucial issues.