Strong Animals, Strong Systems: Exploring Sustainability and Storytelling in Animal Agriculture

On this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance sits down with Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech, for an in-depth conversation about the future of food, the realities of animal agriculture, and the importance of connecting scientific progress with compelling storytelling. Recorded live at the Poultry Science Association’s annual meeting, their discussion takes listeners beyond the world of poultry to examine how cattle, culture, and the next generation of scientists are all part of creating a more sustainable food system.   Dr. Lyons shares the inspiration and vision behind A World Without Cows, a documentary film that explores the essential role of cattle in food security, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. The film was screened at the annual meeting and takes viewers around the world, sharing stories from farmers and communities whose lives are intricately connected to livestock. If you want to see more, you can watch the documentary and explore additional stories at https://worldwithoutcows.com.   The conversation also touches on the launch of Planet of Plenty, a company created by Dr. Lyons to further support initiatives that highlight innovation and optimism in agriculture. Andy and Mark dive into the challenges of communicating complex science to a broad audience and discuss why emotion and narrative are just as important as facts and data. They reflect on how food production and sustainability look very different depending on geography, culture, and local resources, and why it is so important to tell authentic, diverse stories from around the globe. The episode highlights the optimism and curiosity needed to lead in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape, and how true collaboration across disciplines, industries, and continents will shape the future of animal agriculture for years to come.   If you’re interested in how science, leadership, and storytelling intersect to shape our global food system, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on the stories that matter most in agriculture today.   CREDITS Host - Andy Vance Producer - Lyndsey Johnson Audio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.