What If Everything You Know About Food Is Wrong?
Podcast Episode with Joe Sampson & Natalie Kovarik of Discover Ag
In a world dominated by viral TikToks, pop science headlines, and "expert" influencers, how do you know what's really true about your food?
In this episode of the podcast, Joe Sampson sits down with Natalie Kovarik, co-host of the Discover Ag podcast, to explore one of the most pressing cultural questions of our time: what are we eating, and why does everyone have such strong opinions about it?
From glyphosate to GMOs, European food myths, and carnivore diets, nothing is off the table, literally. But unlike the fear-fueled content we’ve all been doom-scrolling, this conversation is grounded in facts, science, humor, and a healthy dose of common sense.
From Pharmacy to Cattle Ranching: Meet Natalie Kovarik
Natalie’s story is far from ordinary. Once a full-time pharmacist in Montana, she now resides on a cattle ranch in rural Nebraska with her family, co-hosts the Discover Ag podcast, and serves as a leading voice in connecting agriculture to pop culture.
Her mission?
“We want to make agriculture cool again.”
Through Discover Ag, Natalie and her co-host bridge the gap between the American food system and mainstream culture, using trending stories and reels as jumping-off points for deeper, smarter conversations about food, farming, and how they shape our daily lives.
Food Panic, Misinformation & the Power of Virality
Joe opens with a bizarre story, a family digging a hole at the beach becomes a viral conspiracy. The point?
We believe what’s loud, not necessarily what’s true.
Natalie highlights a perfect example: a viral reel from a food influencer trashing wagyu beef with zero facts, yet racking up millions of views. Meanwhile, real ranchers and farmers with actual experience are buried in the algorithm.
“There are seeds of truth, but often they get twisted for clicks.”
Natalie and Joe explore how misinformation thrives in our modern media landscape, and why we need critical thinking more than ever when it comes to what we’re eating and who we’re trusting.
Glyphosate & GMOs: The Real Story
One of the most impactful segments in this conversation was around the Discover Ag podcast’s recent three-part series on glyphosate and GMOs. It featured:
An expert completely against glyphosate
A scientist supporting its use
Natalie and her co-host breaking it all down with their own reflections
The verdict?
“Right now, glyphosate is one of the safest, most effective tools available to farmers. But that doesn’t mean we stop asking questions or investing in better alternatives.”
Natalie’s approach is refreshingly balanced, not blindly defending or attacking, but emphasizing science, responsibility, and adaptability.
American vs European Food: Is the Grass Greener?
Let’s talk about a myth you’ve probably heard before:
“I went to Europe, ate cheese and bread all day, and felt amazing!”
Natalie recently returned from Portugal and agrees, yes, it’s easier to feel good there. But not necessarily because of the food. More likely, it’s because you’re:
Walking more
Less stressed
Not commuting or working 9–5
Eating fewer ultra-processed snacks
There are some differences in policy and food systems between the U.S. and Europe, but Natalie makes an important point:
“The problem isn’t American farmers. It’s what happens to food after it leaves the farm.”
In other words, the Big Food processing, marketing, and convenience culture play a larger role in our national health than the actual ingredients grown in American soil.
Carnivore Diets, Fast Food, and the Moderation Myth
Natalie also shares a fun update: she and her husband are currently trying the carnivore diet to prepare for an upcoming podcast guest interview.
Her early take?
It hasn’t revolutionized her energy or mindset (yet), but it’s sparked some powerful insights about her own food habits, cravings, and emotional connection to food.
Meanwhile, Joe raises an equally powerful quote from Willie Nelson:
“Everything in moderation, including moderation.”
Fast food? It has its place.
Artisan beer? Delicious.
Doritos? Probably not the devil.
The takeaway? You don’t need to overhaul your life to eat better—just start thinking more critically and aim for balance.
Fear, Faith & Finding Your Way Back
One of the most moving parts of the conversation was the shift from food fear to faith-based courage.
Joe shares how many of us are becoming our own gods, placing pressure on ourselves to fix, understand, or fear everything. But the real answer may lie in letting go, returning to spiritual grounding, and finding peace in a chaotic, algorithm-driven world.
“Don’t be careful. Be brave. Be courageous. Don’t be careless, but don’t be scared either.”
In a culture of anxiety, food panic, and ideological echo chambers, that’s a message we all need to hear.
Why You Should Listen to Discover Ag
If you care about food, culture, and truth, or just want to actually enjoy learning about these topics, Discover Ag is worth adding to your queue.
It’s smart, witty, well-researched, and honest. Whether you're a parent, fitness junkie, curious foodie, or just someone who’s tired of the noise, this podcast offers clarity without fear-mongering.
Where to Find More
Discover Ag Podcast
Available on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Follow Natalie Kovarik & Her Podcast
Instagram: @nataliekovarik
Instagram: Discover Ag
Farm Progress Show
Catch Natalie giving a keynote: farmprogressshow.com
