This podcast takes a deep dive into Iowa’s decades-long water quality crisis through conversations with three individuals: an environmental scientist, a politician and a West High student. Together, their narratives reveal a shared commitment to building a cleaner, healthier future for all Iowans. By exploring science, public policy and civic advocacy, this podcast highlights both the complexity of the crisis and the efforts that are already making a difference. Its goal is to help high school students understand the many dimensions of Iowa’s water quality crisis and inspire meaningful conversations and action.

The episode features scientist Dr. David Cwiertny, Democratic candidate for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Chris Jones, and West High student and researcher Sebnati Jemal ’27.

Music:

Intro: “Selfless” by Eleven Tales, licensed from Artlist.io

Ending: “Holding on to Hope” by Christopher Galovan, licensed from Artlist.io

Sound effects:

“Why am I anxious” by Just for Kicks, licensed from Artlist.io

“Water Bubbles Glugs” by Krotos, licensed from Artlist.io

“The Farm – Chicken Clucking Hen Coop” by Marcello Del Monaco, licensed from Artlist.io

“Ranch Animals – Pig Snorting and Whiffing” by Selkor Studio, licensed from Artlist.io

“Farm Game – Cow Moo Lowing” by Epic Stock Media, licensed from Artlist.io

“Flow – Water Stream Flowing Gently” by InspectorJ, licensed from Artlist.io