Talking Facs

Host: Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health Guest: Rachele Yadon, MD Assistant Professor for Psychiatry, UK College of Medicine, UK Healthcare Season 8, Episode 3 In this intriguing episode of Talking Facts, host Dr. Courtney Luecking sits down with Dr. Rachele Yadon, an assistant professor of psychiatry and director of the psychiatry residency training program at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. With extensive expertise in perinatal psychiatry, Dr. Yadon shares invaluable insights into the profound importance of sleep for both physical and mental health. Dr. Yadon emphasizes that sleep is essential for physical restoration, memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and cognitive performance. Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to serious health issues, underscoring the need for deep, uninterrupted, and restorative sleep. The conversation explores common barriers to quality sleep, such as artificial light, stress, and lifestyle demands, offering p

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: Natese Dockery, PhD Assisant Clinical Professor for Mental Health and Well-being Season 8, Episode 2 In this episode of Talking FACS, hosted by Mindy McCulley from the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Program, we delve into the mental health benefits of travel with Dr. Natese Dockery, Assistant Clinical Professor for Mental Health and Well-being. Discover how travel can enhance your mood, reduce stress, and improve social connections. Dr. Dockery shares insights on how even short trips can offer a temporary escape from daily responsibilities, improve sleep, and stimulate mindfulness. Explore the science behind travel's impact on mental well-being, including its ability to activate the brain's reward system, boost neuroplasticity, and lower cortisol levels. Learn about mindful travel practices, such as local getaways, nature hikes, solo trips, and travel journaling, that can ma

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky Guests: Kelly May, Senior Extension Associate for Family Finance and Resource Management and Barbara Breutinger, Family Financial Counseling Intern Season 8, Episode 1 On this segment of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS we delve into the essentials of investing with Kelly May and Barbara Breutinger who work on the Family Resource Management side of Family and Consumer Sciences Extension. This episode unravels the intriguing differences between saving and investing, emphasizing the power of compound interest and the potential of growing your wealth over time. We discuss crucial investment strategies, focusing on the importance of starting early, regardless of age, and the benefits of employer retirement plans such as 401(k)s. Listeners will gain insights into building a diversified investment portfolio and understanding risk tolerance, along with tips on leveraging tax advantages an

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky Guest: Katherine Jury, MS Extension Specialist for Family Health Season 7, Episode 52 In this episode of Talking FACS, Katherine Jury, Extension Specialist for Family Health, discusses the complexities of choosing the right medical care in today's healthcare landscape. With options ranging from telemedicine to emergency care, listeners will gain insights into when and why each service should be used, and the pivotal role of a primary care provider in ensuring consistent, personalized care. The conversation touches on the advantages of having a trusted primary care physician, including the benefits of established patient-doctor relationships and the ability to receive timely care. Also explored are the considerations needed before opting for urgent care, including understanding insurance coverage, and the difference between urgent and emergency care situations. Finally, the episode delves into the burgeoning fiel

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Dr. Joseph Valentino, MD Professor of Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery), UK Markey Cancer Center  Cancer Conversations Episode 65 Welcome to another engaging episode of Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS where science meets community outreach. In this insightful session, host Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist chats with Dr. Joseph Valentino, a distinguished professor of Otolaryngology, to explore an organ often overlooked until trouble arises—the thyroid. The episode dives deep into the thyroid gland's role as the body's metabolic regulator, likening its function to a car's throttle. Dr. Valentino elaborates on how thyroid cancer, surprisingly, often does not affect hormone production despite tumor presence within the gland. The conversation unveils how modern imaging techniques have increased discovery rates, shifting medical approaches towards more nuanced, pe

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 7, Episode 51 On this episode of Talking FACS we tackle a pressing issue often misunderstood—the impact of drug seizures on the addicted community.  Join host Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist, and expert guest Dr. Alex Elswick, Assistant Extension Professor for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, as they delve into the counterintuitive study examining the real effects of drug seizures. Discover how law enforcement actions in Indianapolis (a city very similar to Lexington) rather than reducing drug use, inadvertently lead to increased overdose rates. Through engaging discussion, learn about the unintended consequences of disrupting drug supplies, the complexities of addiction, and why current drug policies might need reevaluation. Dr. Elswick explains the necessity for pragmatic approac

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: LaToya Drake, MS Extension Specialist for Food Access and Engagement, Kentucky Nutrition Education Program Season 7, Episode 50 In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley delves into the pressing issue of hunger in Kentucky with guest LaToya Drake, Extension Specialist for Food Access and Engagement. They discuss the alarming rates of food insecurity affecting both children and adults across the state, with a particular focus on rural areas where access to nutritious food is limited. LaToya shares insights on how poverty and lack of transportation contribute to the crisis and emphasizes the importance of community-driven solutions. The conversation highlights potential strategies to combat food insecurity, including policy advocacy, strengthening partnerships, and fostering education on nutrition. Join us as we explore sustainable approaches to ensure every Kentuckian has access to healthy foo

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky Guest: Kelly May, Senior Extension Associate for Family Finance and Resource Management Season 7, Episode 49 In this episode of Talking FACS, we delve into the critical topic of online privacy and data protection. Hosted by the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Program, this episode features Kelly May, Senior Extension Associate for Family Finance and Resource Management. Kicking off the conversation, Kelly highlights the ubiquitous nature of digital data collection through our everyday devices, including smartphones, tablets, and even our home appliances. With technology making life convenient, it's crucial to be aware of the potential privacy concerns that accompany these advancements. The episode explores how data is collected, from location services and browsing history to the more sophisticated tracking methods employed by apps and smart dev

On this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley delves into the essential topic of hydration as we approach the warmer months with Dr. Heather Norman-Bergdolf, Extension Specialist for Food and Nutrition. Together, they explore the crucial role of hydration in maintaining overall health. Discover how water and electrolytes work hand-in-hand to support functions like energy metabolism, muscle and nerve function, and managing body temperature. Heather sheds light on the importance of electrolytes, explaining how they maintain balance within the body's systems, aid in nutrient absorption, and facilitate proper organ function. She also addresses common misconceptions about the need for commercial electrolyte products, emphasizing that for most, a balanced diet and adequate water intake suffices. This episode also covers the impact of sweating on hydration, particularly for those engaged in strenuous activities or outdoor jobs, and the risks of over-consumption of electrolytes in certain products. Tune in to

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development   Season 7, Episode 47 Welcome to another insightful episode of Talking FACS, brought to you by the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Program. In this episode, host Mindy McCulley discusses the often nerve-wracking season of report cards with special guest Dr. David Weisenhorn, Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development. Dr. Weisenhorn shares valuable advice for parents on how to approach their child's report card not merely as a measure of academic performance but as an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and growth. He outlines four key strategies: creating a supportive environment focusing on positives using open-ended questions, and collaborating on solutions. Through these approaches, parents can foster a positive, motivating atmosphere for their children while avoiding the p

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Susan Yacksan, PhD, APRN, AOCN Enterprise Director of Service Line Performance Management, UK HealthCare Cancer Conversations Episode 64 Join us on Cancer Conversations for an insightful discussion with Dr. Susan Yacksan, the Enterprise Director for Service Line Performance Management with Markey Cancer Center, as we take a look at the multifaceted world of oncology nursing. Discover the different pathways to becoming an oncology nurse, the various subspecialties such as medical, surgical, and GYN oncology, and the certification processes involved. Dr. Yacksan shares her extensive career experiences, from academic medical centers to community hospitals, emphasizing her passion for patient relationships and the scientific approach needed in cancer care. If you are considering a nursing career or want to explore oncology, learn about the impact of this specialty and the opportunit

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Jonathan Larson, PhD Assistant Extension Professor for Entomology Season 7, Episode 46 In this exciting episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley invites Dr. Jonathan Larson, an Assistant Extension Professor from the Department of Entomology, to unravel the fascinating emergence of the 'Bourbon Brood', a unique group of periodical cicadas in Kentucky. As they discuss the significance of Brood XIV, listeners will journey through the cicadas' mysterious life cycle, their impact on the local ecosystem, and the quirks of their vibrant mating rituals. Dr. Larson sheds light on the widespread appearance of cicadas across central and eastern Kentucky, highlighting the regions prone to witnessing this extraordinary natural occurrence. The conversation takes a curious turn as they explore potential collaborations with Kentucky’s famous bourbon industry and consider the culinary prospe

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky   Guests: Kerri Ashurst, PhD, Senior Extension Specialist for Family and Relationship Development and Kristen Jowers, MS Extension Specialist for OneOp Season 7, Episode 45 Welcome to another episode of Talking FACS. In this episode, we prioritize experiences over expenses in family vacations. Join host Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist at the University of Kentucky, as she explores ways to enjoy unforgettable family trips without overspending with Dr. Kerri Ashurst and Kristen Jowers.  Our guests share their expertise on managing vacation budgets, strategies to choose affordable destinations, save on accommodations, manage meal costs, and avoid travel scams. From planning road trips to exploring your own backyard, learn how to make the most of your travels while keeping expenses in check. Plus, discover military family camping programs offering valuable experiences for se

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: Natese Dockery, PhD Assisant Clinical Professor for Mental Health and Well-being Season 7, Episode 44 In this episode of Talking FACS, Mindy McCulley is joined by Dr. Natese Dockery, Assistant Clinical Professor for Mental Health and Well-Being, to explore the critical role social connections play in mental health. They discuss how isolation can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and even physical health issues, emphasizing the protective benefits of strong social ties. Listeners will learn to identify warning signs of isolation, such as reduced social interactions and changes in behavior, and discover practical ways to enhance social connections. From spending quality time with loved ones to community involvement and even modern tech solutions, this episode provides essential insights for maintaining mental and physical well-being. For more information about mental health: Mindfulness for your mental

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Alexis Sheffield, MS Extension Specialist for Horticulture, Center for Crop Diversification Season 7, Episode 43 Join us on Talking FACS as host Mindy McCulley welcomes Horticulture Specialist Alexis Sheffield with the Center for Crop Diversification at the University of Kentucky. This episode delves into the fascinating world of edible flowers, exploring their increasing popularity on menus and how you can incorporate them into your own culinary adventures. Alexis shares valuable tips on safely identifying and harvesting edible flowers, emphasizing the importance of sourcing them responsibly. Discover a wide variety of flowers like squash blossoms, day lilies, and violets, and learn how to enhance your dishes with these natural, colorful ingredients. Mindy and Alexis also discuss the delicate balance of picking blooms without depleting plant stocks and ensuring food safety when

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Dr. Melina Windon, MD,  Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology, UK Markey Cancer Center Cancer Conversations Episode 63 In this episode of Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS, Dr. Melina Windon, an Assistant Professor of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center, discusses head and neck cancers. Dr. Windon provides insights into her specialty, emphasizing the critical aspects of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and reconstructive surgery, which restores patients' ability to speak and swallow. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge about the primary risk factors for head and neck cancer, including tobacco use, HPV exposure, and heavy alcohol consumption. Dr. Windon highlights the importance of the HPV vaccine as a preventive measure, particularly targeting both boys and girls at a young age. She also explains the significance of routine oral canc

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 7, Episode 42 In this enlightening episode of Talking FACS, Dr. Alex Elswick, Assistant Extension Professor for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, joins host Mindy McCulley to shed light on an often-overlooked issue: substance use and misuse among older adults. With the aging population rapidly growing, Dr. Elswick discusses why it is crucial to address this concern now more than ever. Our conversation delves into staggering statistics, revealing a sharp rise in binge drinking and substance use disorders in seniors. Dr. Elswick shares insights into the physiological changes that make older adults more susceptible to the harmful effects of alcohol and drugs, including the interaction with prescribed medications and the increased risk of falls. The episode also explores the social and psych

Welcome to this month's edition of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACs, hosted by Mindy McCulley from University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension. In today's discussion, Mindy is joined by Jeanne Badgett, Senior Extension Associate for Clothing, Textiles, and Household Equipment. Together, they delve into the prevalent issue of having a closet full of unworn clothes and the common pitfall of buyer's remorse. Jeanne shares insightful strategies to manage and declutter your wardrobe, offering advice on the importance of buying clothes that fit well and boost confidence. The episode explores the 80-20 rule regarding wardrobe usage and emphasizes the value of quality over quantity, urging listeners to invest in garments that last and flatter. The conversation touches on avoiding impulsive purchases due to sales, trends, or emotions, highlighting the significance of being intentional with clothing choices. Jeannie and Mindy also discuss practical tips for returning or donating items you regret buying, ensu

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: LaToya Drake, MS Extension Specialist for Food Access, Kentucky Nutrition Education Program Season 7, Episode 40 Join host Mindy McCulley and guest LaToya Drake as they delve into the exciting world of Kentucky's local foods in this episode of Talking FACS. Discover the upcoming Kentucky Local Food Systems Summit, a vibrant event uniting chefs, food service workers, and food enthusiasts. This Summit promises engaging activities like cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, discussions on food sustainability and small farm success, and the FEAST event featuring bite-sized creations from local culinary talents. Learn how the Summit aims to expand access to fresh, local ingredients while fostering a more connected and sustainable food network across the state of Kentucky. With guest Chef Tanya Whitehouse and other industry experts, explore topics from farm-to-table cooking to urban agriculture and food syst

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky   Guest: Heather Norman-Burgdolf, PhD, Associate Extension Professor for Nutrition and Health Season 7, Episode 39 In this enlightening episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley welcomes Dr. Heather Norman-Burgdolf, Associate Extension Professor for Nutrition and Health, to explore the critical connection between diet and dental health. They delve into how dental issues can restrict dietary choices, leading to potential nutrient deficiencies and social impacts, especially highlighting the intricate relationship between oral and mental health. Heather emphasizes the preventative role of nutrition in oral health, discussing which nutrients are vital for strong teeth and gums, such as calcium, phosphorus, and fluoride. The episode also covers surprising dietary habits to support dental and overall health, including the benefits of high-fiber foods and maintaining balanced me