KLSU Radio introduced a new monthly podcast series, “Tiger Talk,” in early March featuring guests from Louisiana State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine. The debut episode, released on Mar. 18, featured Dr. Taylor Strickland, assistant professor of food animal medicine and surgery, who discussed the importance of animal health and its connection to human well-being.
The collaboration between KLSU Radio and LSU Vet Med aims to provide listeners with expert insights into animal, human, and environmental health. The partnership began after discussions between KLSU News Director Kierra Evans and LSU Vet Med Communications Manager Sandra Sarr. Sarr previously mentored Evans in the 2025 LSU First-Gen Program before Evans became news director.
“Tiger Talk” is produced by the student journalist news team at KLSU Radio. Episodes are distributed across platforms such as YouTube, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, and official LSU channels. The podcast covers topics including wildlife research, scientific advances, clinical success stories, and broader issues affecting food systems.
In the first episode, Strickland described her role: “I’m Doctor Taylor Strickland. And, probably what you’ll learn through this is I like cows a lot, and that’s mostly what I do. I’m a cow doctor. I serve as an assistant professor of food animal medicine and surgery, which means I care for a wide range of hoofed animals—cows, goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, and alpacas—if you have a giraffe, bring it!” She also highlighted the unpredictability of her work: “My days start by checking in with interns and students who evaluate patients overnight… On any given day… you do what you’ve got to do. The unpredictability is what makes it exciting.”
Strickland explained that food animal medicine has evolved beyond traditional roles: “We now care for animals that are part of food systems, companions, and even athletes.” She emphasized the importance of population health in veterinary practice: “In food animal medicine… we rely on epidemiology and data to track disease and understand how it spreads.”
Addressing climate change’s impact on livestock production and food safety concerns in Louisiana’s diverse agricultural sector were also key points in the discussion. Strickland said education is crucial for public support: “Just going a step further and getting involved with where your food comes from is important—and also having that critical-thinking lens.”
The podcast seeks to connect audiences with veterinary science while highlighting its relevance to everyday life.
