Community, Careers and Cheese: Bel Brands and SDState - The Yellow & Blue Podcast S2E5

Student Media at SDState - The Yellow & Blue Podcast S2E6

This episode features Sara Schoenfelder, Ryann Davis and Andrew Lewno, current students and members of student media at South Dakota State University. From writing and reporting to broadcasting and podcasting, they’re gaining real-world experience while creating content that informs, connects and engages the campus community — and helping shape the future of student media. The episode was recorded as part of MCOM 317: Multimedia Reporting, where classroom concepts come to life through hands-on opportunities like this, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to produce student-led media. Full Transcript [https://www.sdstate.edu/news/2026/05/yellow-blue-podcast-student-media-sdstate-s2e6]

Community, Careers and Cheese: Bel Brands and SDState - The Yellow & Blue Podcast S2E5

Bel Brands USA is making a major investment in Brookings, committing $200 million to expand its facility and double production of its iconic Babybel cheese. Production is increasing from about 1.5 million to 3 million cheeses per day — all made in Brookings, the only facility supplying Babybel cheese in the United States. Jake Anderson, a 2004 South Dakota State University dairy manufacturing graduate and current project director at Bel Brands in Brookings, shares insight into the company’s expansion, its strong connection to SDState and the impact of its workforce — with about 90% of upper plant management made up of SDState alumni. Full Transcript [https://www.sdstate.edu/news/2026/04/yellow-blue-podcast-community-careers-cheese-bel-brands-sdstate-s2e5]

From Lab to Life: How Research Shapes Our World - The Yellow & Blue Podcast S2E4

Research is the engine behind innovation, commercialization and economic growth across nearly every industry. At South Dakota State University, that innovation doesn’t stop in the lab; it goes to work. In this episode, we explore how a single research idea can become a commercial product with real regional and global impact. Houdek, is a South Dakota company born from SDSU research. You’ll hear from alumni and Houdek employees, Austin Bushong, a research microbiologist, and Jeremy Javers, vice president of technology, as they share how research led to MEPro — a high-protein feed ingredient made from South Dakota soybeans and used in sustainable aquaculture around the world. Learn more about research at #SDState. [http://www.sdstate.edu/division-research-economic-development] Full Transcript [https://www.sdstate.edu/news/2026/03/yellow-blue-podcast-lab-life-how-research-shapes-our-world-s2e4]

Campus to Community - The Impact of SDSU on Brookings - The Yellow & Blue Podcast S2E3

There’s something special about every college town — and Brookings is no exception. This episode explores the deep connection between South Dakota State University and the city of Brookings. Guest Laura Schoen Carbonneau, Executive Director of Visit Brookings, shares what makes the community unique, how SDState contributes to its growth and spirit, and why so many alumni choose to make Brookings their home long after graduation. Full Transcript [https://www.sdstate.edu/news/2025/11/yellow-blue-podcast-campus-community-impact-sdsu-brookings-s2e3]

From Pharmacy to Phenomenon - Wall Drug - The Yellow & Blue Podcast S2E2

In this episode of “The Yellow & Blue Podcast,” we hit the road to explore the story behind Wall Drug — the legendary roadside stop just eight miles north of Badlands National Park. What began nearly 95 years ago as a small pharmacy has become a world-famous destination known for free ice water, homemade donuts and classic Americana charm. Joining the conversation are Rick Hustead, South Dakota State University alum and chairman of Wall Drug and Sarah Hustead, vice president of the family-run business. We’ll talk about the Hustead family’s vision, the store’s deep South Dakota roots and Wall Drug’s strong ties to SDSU.   Full Transcript [https://www.sdstate.edu/news/2025/08/yellow-blue-podcast-pharmacy-phenomenon-wall-drug-s2e2]