Talking Facs

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Dr. Gregory Monohan, MD,  Professor, Division of Hematology and Blood Marrow Transplant, UK Markey Cancer Center Cancer Conversations Episode 62 Dive into the latest episode of Cancer Conversation on Talking FACS, where host Mindy McCulley from the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension is joined by Dr. Gregory Monohan, a professor of medicine in the Division of Hematology and Blood Marrow Transplant. In this insightful discussion, they explore groundbreaking advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of blood cancers, including leukemias, lymphomas, and multiple myeloma. Dr. Monohan sheds light on the complexities of blood cancer classifications and the significant progress made in developing targeted therapies tailored to various subtypes. The episode highlights the pivotal role of immunotherapy, introducing CAR-T therapy, bispecific antibodies, and TIL

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 38 In this episode, host Mindy McCulley is joined by LaToya Drake, Extension Specialist for Food Access with the Kentucky Nutrition Education Program. Together, they explore vital guidance on the best practices for storing fruits and vegetables effectively to minimize food waste. Share practical tips such as the importance of refrigerating pre-cut produce, separating fruits and vegetables in storage to prevent premature ripening, and optimizing refrigerator settings to preserve perishables like berries and lettuce. The episode delves into cleaning techniques that enhance the longevity of your produce and underscores why certain storage methods, such as avoiding commercial cleaners, are beneficial. Discover which fruits are best ripened on countertops and when to transfer them to refrigeration to e

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Preservation Season 7, Episode 37 In this episode of Talking FACS, we delve into the safety concerns surrounding black plastic kitchen utensils. Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Preservation and Food Safety, explores whether these commonly used utensils are as harmless as they seem. Recent studies have unveiled the presence of flame retardants (FRs) in black utensils, derived from recycled electronics, posing potential health risks when exposed to heat. Annhall offers invaluable tips on selecting safe kitchen tools, recommending alternatives like wood, silicone, and BPA-free materials. Listeners will gain insights into identifying food-grade products and the importance of avoiding certain plastics. The episode also covers proper care for wooden utensils and safe practices when handling raw meat. Tune in to learn how to make informed decis

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky Guest: Nichole Huff, PhD Assistant Extension Professor for Family Finance and Resource Management Season 7, Episode 36 In this episode of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS, host Mindy is joined by Dr. Nichole Huff, Assistant Extension Professor for Family Finance and Resource Management, to explore practical strategies for overcoming financial challenges faced by many today. Dr. Huff sheds light on the shifting dynamics of income distribution in the U.S., noting the growing difficulty in keeping pace with rising expenses despite increased income levels. The conversation delves into the fundamental budget-balancing choices: increasing income or reducing expenses, and emphasizes the practicality of cutting expenses. From analyzing discretionary spending to managing fixed costs, listeners are equipped with actionable tips to identify and implement savings. This episode highlights innov

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Kentucky Guest: Courtney Luecking, PhD Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health Season 7, Episode 35 Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. Courtney Luecking, Assistant Extension Professor for Maternal and Child Health, as they delve into the importance of cultivating a positive body image from a young age. In this episode, they discuss how body image influences overall well-being and share actionable tips for parents to help their children appreciate their bodies amidst societal pressures and unrealistic media portrayals. Dr. Luecking emphasizes the role of social media, family, and friends in shaping perception and offers strategies for parents to be positive role models. The conversation touches on the challenges adolescents face and provides practical advice for fostering affirming environments that celebrate body diversity. Learn how to guide conversations away from body size and

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky   Guest: Bethany Pratt, MS Extension Food Systems Specialist, Kentucky Nutrition Education Program Season 7, Episode 34 Join us as we explore the world of vegetable gardening with Bethany Pratt, the Food System Specialist with the Nutrition Education Program. In this episode, discover how gardening can be a fun and flexible hobby that not only enhances your physical activity and eating choices but also fits any budget. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a small patio, Bethany shares tips for getting the most out of your space and time, including advice on container gardening for those with limited space or mobility. We discuss the support resources available through the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, which offers guidance through county extension agents and online tools. Learn how to choose easy-to-grow vegetables that align with your taste and budget, and find out when to start planting in Ken

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Tia Borger, PhD  Assistant Professor and Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, UK College of Medicine & UK Markey Cancer Center Faculty Member Cancer Conversations Episode 61 In this enlightening episode of Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS, we are joined by Dr. Tia Borger, a clinical psychologist and assistant professor in the UK Department of Psychiatry, as we delve into the significant benefits of quitting smoking after a cancer diagnosis. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Borger highlights how quitting smoking can reduce early mortality risk, enhance treatment efficacy, and improve overall quality of life for cancer patients. Despite common barriers to quitting, such as stress and habitual behavior, Dr. Borger explains that various supportive resources and cessation medications are available to help individuals succeed. She also emphasizes that similar benefi

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 33 Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. David Weisenhorn as they delve into the realities of true love stories, contrasting fairy tale notions and commercialized expectations. Explore practical, research-backed tips for building strong, lasting relationships with your true love. Dr. Weisenhorn emphasizes the importance of open and honest communication as the cornerstone of a healthy partnership. Discover how active listening and expressing emotions can lead to a more satisfying relationship. Learn how simple acts of service can strengthen your bond and the significance of investing in your partner's 'love bank' without expecting anything in return. They also discusses the crucial role of spending quality time together, away from daily chaos, to create lasting memories and emotional bonds. Whether in a new

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky Guest: Whitney Holmes, MS Assistant Director for Learning Services, Center for Academic and Tutorial Services (CATS)/UK Athletics Season 7, Episode 32 In this engaging episode of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS, Mindy McCulley sits down with special guest, Whitney Holmes, Associate Director of Learning Services with CATS/UK Athletics to discus how neurodivergent children can be empowered with essential financial skills. Whitney discusses the commonality of neurodivergence, the importance of a strengths-based approach, and how to leverage the unique abilities of neurodivergent individuals. This episode offers practical strategies for helping children with diverse learning profiles build financial competence. Listeners will gain valuable insights on the benefits of starting financial education early, how to utilize school resources for support, and the importance of patience and ad

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 31 In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley is joined by Dr. Alex Elswick, Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, to discuss Xylazine, a non-opioid sedative increasingly found in the drug supply. Originally used in veterinary medicine, Xylazine is not intended for human consumption but is being mixed with drugs like fentanyl without users' knowledge, complicating the ongoing opioid crisis. Dr. Elswick explains the unexpected presence of Xylazine in the drug market and its implications, highlighting how it poses new risks to overdose situations. The conversation delves into the difficulties posed by Xylazine's sedative effects, which can mask opioid overdoses and complicate life-saving interventions such as Naloxone administration. The episode al

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 30 Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. David Weisenhorn in this insightful episode of "Talking FACS" as they explore what preteens need from their parents. Delve into the challenges and pivotal moments faced by children aged 9 to 12, a time marked by significant physical, emotional, and social development. Dr. Weisenhorn, an Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development, outlines four essential aspects that are crucial for parents to consider: maintaining open communication, offering emotional support, setting clear boundaries, and encouraging independence. Through engaging dialogue, Mindy and David provide practical advice and personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of adapting these strategies to meet individual needs, taking into account gender and personality differences. Connect

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Kentucky Guest: Anna Cason, RD Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition Season 7, Episode 29 In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley welcomes Anna Cason, Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition at the University of Kentucky, to delve into the world of energy drinks. Are these popular beverages truly effective, or do they hide potential health risks? Anna provides a comprehensive overview of what energy drinks are, highlighting their ingredients, including caffeine and various herbs, and discusses how these drinks are marketed. The discussion addresses the differences between energy shots and larger energy drinks, along with their potential impact on health, such as the interaction of ingredients with medications and the challenges of accurately determining caffeine content. The episode also explores the implications of high caffeine and sugar intake, emphasizing the restrictio

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  Guest: Cheri Tolle, MAEd Director, UK Markey Cancer Center Affiliate Network (MCCAN) Cancer Conversations Episode 60 In this episode of Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS, Cheri Tolle, Director for the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center Affiliate Network, shares her extensive experience and personal insights into dealing with a cancer diagnosis. She discusses the emotional challenges faced when diagnosed with cancer and offers empowering strategies to handle the journey. The conversation covers essential questions to ask your cancer care team, the importance of understanding your diagnosis and treatment options, and effective management strategies for dealing with side effects. Additionally, Cheri addresses the significant role of caregivers and provides practical advice on seeking support and utilizing trusted information sources. Join us as we explore how to navigate the c

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 28 On this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley engages with Senior Extension Associate Kelly May to explore the science behind forming habits that stick. Focusing on financial habits, they discussing how to break ineffective patterns and cultivate productive ones. Kelly introduces the concept of the habit loop detailed in James Clear's 'Atomic Habits,' explaining how cues, cravings, responses, and rewards form behaviors. Through practical examples, she reveals the secrets to breaking bad habits, such as excessive spending, and building new, beneficial ones. Listeners will discover actionable strategies for making desirable habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying while learning how to render undesirable habits invisible, unattractive, difficult, and uns

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 27 In this episode of Talking FACS we delve into the 2025 Nutrition Education Program Calendar with LaToya Drake, Extension Specialist for Food Access, who reveals the beautifully crafted calendar packed with enticing recipes. Discover the process behind the calendar’s stunning food photography, emphasizing the use of real, edible food without wasteful practices. Gain insights into the cost-effective recipes, including the split pea soup and buffalo cauliflower bites, which are designed to be budget-friendly and delicious. Learn about the innovative cooking methods featured in the calendar, such as air frying, and the diverse range of recipes that cater to various dietary needs and occasions. This episode highlights the educational aspect of the calendar, providing food safety tips, ingredient spo

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 26 Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. David Weisenhorn, Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development, as they delve into the concept of snowplow parenting. In this enlightening episode of Talking FACS, they explore the transition from helicopter to snowplow parenting and discuss the implications of overly protective parenting styles on children's development. Dr. Weisenhorn emphasizes the importance of allowing children to face obstacles, make mistakes, and develop resilience and problem-solving skills. Mindy shares personal anecdotes and the lessons she learned as a parent, highlighting the significance of finding a balance between offering support and fostering independence. Listeners will gain insights into promoting open communication, recognizing the potential pitfalls of over-parenting,

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 7, Episode 25 In this enlightening episode of Talking FACS, Jeanne Badgett, Extension Associate for Clothing, Textiles, and Household Equipment, delves into the perplexing issue of tiny holes appearing in our t-shirts and other garments. The discussion highlights the common causes of these holes, such as abrasion from belt buckles, zippers, or kitchen counters, as well as the impact of modern, thinner fabrics. Practical solutions are offered to prevent and repair these unwanted holes, including proper laundering practices, the use of aprons, and innovative techniques like visible mending. Listeners will gain valuable insights into maintaining their clothing and extending its life despite the challenges of contemporary fashion and fabric quality. Whether it's through careful clothing ch

Host: Dr. Jennifer Hunter, Assistant Director for Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky Guest: Rachel Miller, MS, RD, CSO, LD, Registered Dietitian Consultant, University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center Cancer Conversations Episode 59 In this episode of Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS, Rachel Miller, a certified specialist in oncology nutrition explores the significance of nutrition in cancer prevention and care. With over a decade of experience at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center, Rachel shares her insights on the impact of diet in reducing cancer risks and managing nutritional needs during cancer treatment. Rachel explains her role as an oncology dietitian and addresses common misconceptions about cancer and diet, emphasizing the benefits of a flexible, plant-based approach. She provides practical advice on how patients can navigate nutritional challenges during various stages of cancer treatment, focusing on maintaining adequate nutrition even when side effects

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 24 In this episode of Talking FACS, Dr. Alex Elswick, Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, sheds light on the alarming rise in stimulant use alongside the ongoing opioid crisis, a phenomenon referred to as the "twin epidemic." Alex discusses how stimulant use, particularly methamphetamine and cocaine, has spiked nationally and in Kentucky, becoming a significant driver of overdose fatalities alongside opioids. The episode explores the complexities of drug use patterns, including the notable shift from injection to smoking as the primary route of drug administration. The conversation also touches on social perceptions around drug use and the lack of effective treatments for stimulant addiction, posing challenges for healthcare providers and communities ali

Host: Nichole Huff, PhD Extension Specialist for Family Finance and Resource Management, University of Kentucky Guest: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support Season 7, Episode 23 In this episode of Talking FACS, hosted by Dr. Nichole Huff, we dive into the ever-relevant topic of information literacy in the digital age. Featuring Mindy McCulley as the guest, we explore the challenges of distinguishing between fact and opinion in the realm of viral news and media. Mindy and Nichole discuss five key factors to identify misinformation: authenticity, source, evidence, context, and reasoning. From understanding the impact of manipulated visuals and unsupported claims to trusting your instincts, this episode offers valuable insights for becoming a wise information consumer. Listeners will gain practical tips on how to effectively evaluate news stories and media content before sharing, drawing parallels between these practices and financial consumer awareness.