Talking FACS

UK FCS Extension
  • 5.0 (21)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Biweekly

Welcome to Talking FACS: What you need to know about family, food, finance, and fitness. Hosted by the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Program.

  1. 1d ago

    Back-to-School Backpack Rescue

    Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Jeanne Badgett, MS Extension Associate for Clothing, Textiles, and Household Equipment Season 9 | Episode 4 On this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley and guest Jeanne Badgett, Senior Extension Associate for clothing and textiles, walk listeners through practical steps to clean backpacks for the new school year. Topics include checking care labels, emptying and vacuuming crevices, treating stains, and caring for straps and hardware. Jeanne explains when to machine wash versus hand wash, how to treat canvas/nylon vs leather, and why air drying is essential. The episode highlights easy stain-removal tips, balancing loads, and towel-rolling to remove excess water after hand washing. Key takeaways: many backpacks can be refreshed instead of replaced, extending product life, saving money, and reducing waste. For more practical tips and local resources, contact your Cooperative Extension office and subscribe to Talking Facts for more Family and Consumer Sciences guidance. Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel

  2. 5d ago

    Mobile Syringe Service Programs: Meeting People Where They Are

    Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Alex Elswick, PhD Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery Season 9 | Episode 3 In this episode Talking FACS host Mindy McCulley speaks with Dr. Alex Elswick, Assistant Extension Professor for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, about mobile syringe service programs in rural Appalachia. They discuss why these programs are needed, how they operate in practice, and the unique access challenges faced by people in underserved Kentucky communities. Topics covered include research findings on willingness to use mobile syringe services, concerns about privacy and confidentiality, preferences for clinical staffing and parking locations, and how Extension can reduce stigma and connect people to care. Key points emphasize compassionate, evidence-based harm reduction, meeting people where they are, and the role of Extension in educating and supporting communities. Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel

  3. Jul 14

    Let Them Be Bored: The Power of Play

    Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guests: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development and Katherine Jury, MS Extension Specialist for Family Health Season 9 | Episode 2 Host Mindy McCulley is joined by Dr. David Weisenhorn and Katherine Jury to discuss the why it is critical to give your children time to engage in unstructured activities. They cover why boredom can be beneficial, how it fosters imagination, self-direction, problem solving, and emotional regulation, and how technology and over-engaged parenting can limit these opportunities. The episode highlights research on the harms of micromanaging play—reduced autonomy, increased anxiety, and impaired self-regulation—and offers practical tips for parents: provide safe, flexible spaces, offer simple materials or outdoor options, give minimal prompts, and learn each child’s play preferences to support creative exploration. Listeners can expect real-world examples, summer-ready strategies for handling “I’m bored,” and expert guidance on balancing safety with giving children room to experiment and grow. Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel

  4. Jul 7

    Stop the Drip: Plug Your Spending Leaks

    Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky Guest: Dr. Nichole Huff, Extension Specialist for Family Finance and Resource Management Season 9 | Episode 1 Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. Nichole Huff for MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS, as they reveal common ‘‘spending leaks’’—the small, frequent purchases that quietly drain your budget. Topics include tracking bank and credit card statements, identifying auto-subscriptions, specialty coffee and drive-thru costs, delivery and convenience fees, and interest on unpaid balances. Dr. Huff shares practical steps to find and quantify leaks, simple swaps and behavior changes, family budgeting examples, and how to redirect saved money toward goals like debt repayment or vacations. Listeners will leave with actionable tips to spot hidden expenses, take immediate steps to reduce wasteful spending, and prioritize what matters most for a healthier financial future. For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit: MoneyWi$e Newsletters MoneyWi$e Website Kentucky Immunization Registry Find Vaccines Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel

  5. Jun 30

    Carving Out 'Me Time': Simple Summer Self-Care Strategies

    Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: Kerri Ashurst, PhD, Extension Specialist for Family and Relationship Development Season 8, | Episode 55 In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley chats with Dr. Kerri Ashurst about practical ways to carve out daily "me time"—especially during the busy summer months when routines change and kids are home. Topics covered include why short pockets of self-care matter for mental health, how summer schedules increase stress, and simple, research-based strategies you can start today: unplugging from electronics, prioritizing hobbies, taking short walks or naps, practicing mindfulness and breathing, writing to-do lists or journaling, connecting with others, asking for help, and rewarding yourself with small treats. Key takeaways: me time looks different for everyone (alone time or social time), even 10 minutes counts, it’s important to set boundaries and ask for support, and caring for your own needs helps you be a better caregiver for others. Dr. Ashurst and Mindy share actionable tips for making self-care realistic and guilt-free during summer break. Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel

  6. Jun 23

    Porch Sitting: Simple Steps to Stronger Communities

    Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Monica Mundy, PhD Assistant Extension Professor for Family and Community Health Season 8 | Episode 54 In this Talking FACS episode we explore the simple joy of porch sitting and how it supports mental health, social well‑being, and community connection with Dr. Monica Mundy, Extension Specialist for Family and Community Health. Topics include research on social relationships and longevity, the Surgeon General’s warnings about loneliness, nostalgic and modern porch traditions (including porch geese), and everyday examples of how porches bridge homes and neighborhoods. Key takeaways: spending 10–15 minutes on your porch, saying hello or waving to neighbors, and being present can reduce stress, build trust, and strengthen community ties. Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel

  7. Jun 16

    Let Them Leap: Supporting Risky Play

    Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guests: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development and Katherine Jury, MS Extension Specialist for Family Health Season 8 | Episode 53 In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley speaks with Dr. David Weisenhorn and Katherine Jury about the concept of risky play—what it is, why it matters, and how parents can balance safety with opportunity. They define risky play, discuss its benefits for decision-making, confidence, and brain development, and explain how small, manageable risks teach children to assess consequences. Listeners will hear practical examples and guidance on setting appropriate boundaries while allowing children to experiment, learn from failure, and grow in independence. The episode highlights research-based tips for supporting healthy risk-taking and strengthening families through play. Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel

  8. Jun 9

    Fiber Forward: Balance for Better Health

    Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky   Guest: Anna Cason, Senior Extension Associate, Polk-Dalton Clinic Season 8 | Episode 52 Join Talking FACS host Mindy McCulley and guest Anna Cason, Extension Associate with Family and Consumer Sciences, as they unpack the overlooked importance of fiber in the era of high‑protein trends. The episode explains what fiber is, why most Americans fall short (about 25 g/day for women and 38 g/day for men), and how fiber supports heart health, blood sugar control, digestion, and weight management. Anna offers practical, affordable tips: add fiber gradually and hydrate, choose plant proteins (beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, oats, quinoa) that supply both protein and fiber, favor whole fruit over juice, swap refined grains for whole grains, and use beans or oats to stretch meals. The episode also reviews a simple plate model for balanced meals and troubleshooting for GI discomfort when increasing fiber. Key takeaway: don’t put one nutrient on a pedestal—aim for balanced meals that include fiber alongside protein for better overall health. Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel

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5
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

Welcome to Talking FACS: What you need to know about family, food, finance, and fitness. Hosted by the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Program.

Information

  • Creator
    UK FCS Extension
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    529
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Talking FACS