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. 4d ago

    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

    14 min

  2. Jun 2

    Save Money, Stay Healthy

    Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: Leslie Frame, MS Extension Specialist for Family and Consumer Sciences and EXCITE Health Agent  Season 8 | Episode 51 In this episode to MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley talks with Leslie Frame, Extension Specialist and EXCITE health agent, about simple strategies to get the most from medical visits, avoid surprise medical bills, and protect your health and budget. They explain the EXCITE program and why vaccine confidence and health literacy matter. Learn five practical steps for doctor appointments—what to bring (ID, insurance, assistive devices), how to prepare a two-minute health history, the importance of repeating back instructions, handling forms and tech, and tracking medications (including OTCs and supplements). The episode also covers vaccinations, when to consult your clinician, and useful resources like KYIR and VaccineFinder.org to locate records and vaccine sites. Short, actionable, and budget-focused, this episode helps you be a better health advocate, make informed choices, and save money through preventive care and clear communication. For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$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

    13 min

  3. May 26

    Practical Steps for Daily Mental Health

    Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: Natese Dockery, PhD Assistant Clinical Professor for Mental Health and Well-being  Season 8 | Episode 50 Join Talking FACS host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. Natese Dockery as they wrap up Mental Health Awareness Month with a focused conversation on reducing stigma, recognizing the signs of stress, and building simple, sustainable habits to support daily mental well‑being. Topics include what Mental Health Awareness Month means, how language and openness can reduce stigma, common emotional, cognitive, and behavioral signs of stress, practical stress‑management strategies, and tips for caregivers navigating the challenges of summer routines. The show also highlights the weekly Mental Health Minute video series and resources from the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension. To view the Mental Health Minute playlist on YouTube, click below. For Mental Health support, 988 The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, every day.  988 | The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Question, Persuade, and Refer (QPR) provides training for anyone who wants to help those experiencing mental health challenges. For more information, click the link below: QPR Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any topic discussed on Talking FACS. Kentucky Extension Offices UK FCS Extension           Website           Facebook           Instagram           FCS Learning Channel

    7 min

  4. May 21

    Personalized Cancer Care Fighting Melanoma

    Host: Mindy McCulley, MS, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky  Guest: Dr Ayman Qasrawi, Assistant Professor of Medicine, (Hematology) and Dr. Ruta Arays, Assistant Professor of Medicine (Medical Oncology), Markey Cancer Center Cancer Conversations Episode 75 Host Mindy McCulley interviews Dr. Ayman Qasrawi (Dr. Q) and Dr. Rita Arays of the UK Markey Cancer Center about multiple‑modality management and interdisciplinary collaboration in treating advanced melanoma. The episode explains tumor‑infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) and why this personalized immunotherapy can produce durable responses when other options fail. Key takeaways include the multidisciplinary workflow needed to deliver TILs in Kentucky, candidate selection and timing/referral considerations, program availability at UK (and UofL), and implications for future vaccine research and community care.   Connect with the UK Markey Center Online Markey Cancer Center On Facebook @UKMarkey On Twitter @UKMarkey

    19 min

  5. May 19

    Play Is Children's Work: Why Free Play Matters

    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 49 In this episode of Talking FACS, Extension specialists Dr. David Weisenhorn and Katherine Jury discuss the vital role of unstructured free play in child development. They cover the key benefits of play—physical (muscle and bone development), cognitive (problem solving and learning by doing), social (cooperation and rule-making), and emotional health—with examples like playgrounds, outdoor exploration, and even learning from minor risks such as poison ivy. Guests emphasize outdoor play, practice-driven skill building, and why free time is children’s "work." Listeners can expect practical takeaways on encouraging safe, unstructured play, why less-structured schedules help long-term development, and where to find University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension resources for families.   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

    13 min

  6. May 12

    Resources for Hope: QPR and 988

    Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: Natese Dockery, PhD Assistant Clinical Professor for Mental Health and Well-being  Season 8 | Episode 48 Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. Natese Dockery from University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension as they discuss crisis support and suicide prevention. This episode covers how to recognize signs of emotional distress, when and how to reach out, and why staying connected matters for mental health. Listeners will learn about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—how to call, text, or chat for immediate, confidential help—and the basics of QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) as a simple framework for supporting someone in crisis. The conversation emphasizes practical, compassionate actions community members can take, even without professional training. Key takeaways: pay attention to changes in mood, sleep, or behavior; asking and listening can save lives; resources are available 24/7 (call or text 988). Help, hope, and connection are possible.  Even small acts of presence make a big difference. For more information, click the links below. QPR 988 | The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 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

    10 min

  7. May 5

    Simple Steps to Budgeting

    Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky Guest: Kelly May, MS Senior Extension Associate for Family Finance and Resource Management  Season 8 | Episode 47 Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Kelly May, Senior Extension Associate for Family Resource Management, as they break budgeting into simple, realistic steps to help you spend with purpose, save with confidence, and gain control of your financial future. Topics include understanding gross vs. net income, categorizing expenses (fixed, flexible, occasional), planning for surprise costs, handling surpluses and deficits, avoiding lifestyle creep, and using side gigs or resources to improve your balance. Listeners will come away with practical actions: plan with take-home pay, track all food and small cash purchases, build an emergency fund, prioritize or trim flexible expenses when needed, and reach out to local Extension resources for help. For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit: MoneyWi$e Newsletter MoneyWi$e Website 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

    14 min

  8. May 1

    Future of FCS Extension: Dr. Heather Norman-Burgdolf on Leadership

    Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Guest: Heather Norman-Burgdolf, PhD, Assistant Extension Director for Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Kentucky   Season 8 | Special Edition Episode 1 Mindy McCulley sits down with guest Dr. Heather Norman-Burgdolf, the new Assistant Extension Director for Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Kentucky, for a conversation about the future of Extension. Heather shares her Kentucky roots, long history with Extension and 4‑H, and the path that led her from Extension specialist to administrative leadership. Topics include Heather’s top priorities—alignment, clear roles, strengthened communication, and intentional partnerships—plus how FCS can protect proven programs while exploring new ways to deliver research‑based education. They discuss supporting county agents, specialists, and staff, reaching communities with greatest need, and keeping community impact central to the mission. Key takeaways: Extension translates science into practical community benefits, leadership grounded in people and data matters, and FCS remains a trusted local resource across nutrition, health, resource management, family development, and civic engagement. Expect insights on work–life balance, motivations on tough days, and a relatable look at how personal experience shapes public service. 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

    12 min
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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
    522
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Talking FACS

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