Category: Podcasts

The environmental dilemma of artificial intelligence

By: Evan Hull, Alana Powell, and Gracie Gosier – environment, climate, and sustainability reporters

As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and daily life, its environmental impact is becoming a growing concern. While AI technologies can offer us tools for combating climate change, developing these models contributes significantly to increasing CO2 emissions.

Benjamin Jantzen, associate professor of computer science at Virginia Tech, discusses what goes into developing AI models and its impact on climate change.

Federal hiring freezes and funding cuts leave college graduates with uncertainty

By: Kyndall Hanson, Elizabeth Hill, and Janae Neely, education reporters

Throughout 2025, federal hiring freezes and funding cuts implemented by the Trump administration have created uncertainty for graduating college seniors. As students navigate post-graduate plans, they are often left to choose between entering the workforce or pursuing higher education, both of which present challenges. Kate Renz, assistant director of employer relations and career services in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, discusses the potential impacts on graduating seniors and offers advice on navigating the job market.

The News Feed NRV Podcast: Discussing Art-based Activism

By: Caroline Herbert, Will Frank, and Zain Omar, arts and culture reporters

This podcast discusses the recent “Just Stop Oil” protest in London at a performance of The Tempest. We then discussed the implications and consequences of art based protest and spoke with David Gammons, Assistant Professor of Directing, on his thoughts regarding protesting in the theater.

Differences in diet around the world

By Elizabeth Ann Miller, Evvy Fite and Madi Poole, health & wellness reporters.

Recently, on The Newsfeed podcast, we discussed the differences in diet within the U.S compared to other countries around the world. From the ingredients used in the food to the outside of food factors that we see worldwide, and the effects this may have on people and their daily lives. The group speaks on personal experience in and out of the country and knowledge learned from a Virginia Tech professor, Sean O’Keefe, from Canada. 

Radford Local Recently Named a National WomenHeart Champion

Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the United States. But with certain health incidents–such as cardiac arrests–being commonly associated with the male population, a group of female volunteers have stepped up to spread awareness and educate fellow women. Lucinda McDermott Piro, a Radford resident, was recently named a WomenHeart Champion with The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease.

Alternative Transportation Campus: Students’ Take

by Jonah Saacke and Brooke Van Beuren–

According to a university official, there is a possibility Virginia Tech could move to an alternative transportation campus in the future. This would mean that there would be no cars on campus, leaving the bus, scooters, walking, and skateboards as the only way to get to campus. Virginia Tech already encourages people to try a car-free lifestyle.

Parking is a hot topic on Virginia Tech’s campus, with many students and staff saying there is not enough. Therefore, taking away all parking is bound to create an even bigger conflict. However, many also argue that taking away cars is eco-friendly, safer, and a solution to Virginia Tech’s parking problem.

Students outside Turner Dining Hall shared their opinions with The News Feed if they believe Virginia Tech should become an alternative transportation campus or not.