After extolling the virtues of the cow's physiology, vet and herd manager Nial O'Boyle returns to talk about the cow's role in human progress and civilisation. Sharing stories that focus on the links between humans and cows, throughout the ages, Nial highlights common themes such as kinship, loyalty, betrayal and wealth.

Then to emphasise just how integrated bovine products are in our lives, we share how a day in the life of a typical person might look.

Highlights from this educational and fun-filled episode include: Queen Maeve of Connacht, vulcanisation, whitening of sugar, a false eye, and learning how the cow forms part of the borth of the world.

After hearing this episode, you'll be reminded how we shouldn't take cows for granted and reflect on the many ways we've benefitted from having them in our lives.

If you'd like to hear more from Nial, check out episode 8 in Season 3.