Civic Engagement

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
 

Reducing Harm, Saving Lives

Host: Alex Elswick, PhD Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery
Guest: Alex Johansen, UK Harm Reduction Hub Intern
Season 8, Episode 45
Welcome to Talking FACS. In this episode guest-host Alex Elswick speaks with Alex Johansson, an intern with the UK Harm Reduction Hub, about harm reduction and a newer practice called syringe residue testing. They define harm reduction as both a philosophy grounded in respect and dignity and a set of practical strategies to reduce harms from substance use.
Topics include everyday examples of harm reduction, practical interventions like naloxone distribution and syringe service programs, drug checking methods (including single-use test strips and syringe residue testing), and how the Harm Reduction Hub analyzes syringe residue to monitor Kentucky’s drug supply.
Key findings discussed from recent Kentucky testing (February 2026) include widespread fentanyl and methamphetamine detection across five partnered counties (Fayette, Jefferson, Jessamine, Perry, and Rowan), notable county-level differences (e.g., high meth detection in Rowan County and higher fentanyl presence in Fayette/Jefferson), and the identification of additives such as metatomidine. The conversation highlights how timely, local data help target naloxone distribution, inform outreach and treatment providers, and guide public health responses.
Tune in to learn what syringe residue testing reveals about local risks, how harm reduction agencies communicate alerts, and why this information matters for people who use drugs, families, healthcare providers, and the broader community.
UK Harm Reduction Hub
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

How Pop Culture Shapes Health

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 37
In this episode of Talking FACS, Dr. Monica Mundy, Assistant Extension Professor for Community and Family Health, chats with host Mindy McCulley, about what pop culture is and how it influences health.
Topics include definitions and examples of pop culture (TV, music, social media, influencers), positive influences like Let’s Move and TV story lines that open dialogue about mental health, and negative impacts such as youth vaping and fad diets. The episode highlights memorable public-health moments in pop culture and how they shape awareness and behavior.
Dr. Mundy discusses practical ways communities can harness pop culture for health promotion—partnering with local influencers, using music, art, film, salons and barbershops for outreach, and small grassroots campaigns like the Be Kind initiative.
Listeners can expect a concise, research-informed conversation with actionable ideas for using everyday culture to normalize healthy behaviors and engage 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

How Civic Engagement Becomes a Health Boost

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 33
This is Talking FACS with host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. Monica Mundy. In this episode we explore how civic engagement directly impacts individual and community health.
What comes to mind when you think of civic engagement? In this episode we will push the boundaries of what many people think civic engagement is and share the health benefits you can enjoy.
Topics include research-backed health benefits (longer life expectancy, lower rates of heart disease, depression, and even some cancers), how community involvement builds social connection, resilience, and local decision-making power, and real-world examples like community responses to public health crises.
Dr. Munday shares five simple steps to get involved:
stay informed,
join groups,
speak up,
volunteer, and
bring others along.
She pairs these steps with practical ideas such as food bank volunteering, PTAs, and neighborhood cleanups. Listeners are encouraged to pick one action and connect with local FCS Extension resources to start making a difference.
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

Don't Fail Retirement: Plan for Purpose, Health & Social Connections

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 
Guest: Caroline Francis, EdS Director of UK Alumni Career Services
Season 8, Episode 29
Talking FACS host Mindy McCulley sits down with Caroline Francis, director of the University of Kentucky Alumni Career Services Program, to discuss how to avoid failing at retirement and how retirement is being redefined for today's generations.
They explore topics beyond finances, including:
loss of identity,
shrinking social networks,
declining health, and
lack of purpose.
Sharing practical strategies that lead to successful retirement years, like starting a bucket list or curious journal, pursuing encore careers or volunteer roles, taking advantage of programs such as Donovan Scholars or the OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute) program and prioritizing lifelong learning and health.
Key takeaways include starting to plan 3–5 years ahead, building social connections and purpose, improving health before retirement, and finding role models to emulate for a successful transition.
For more information visit the UK Alumni Association:
Website
Facebook
For more information about programs mentioned during this episode:
OLLI Program
If you are over 65, ask about the Donavan Scholars Program at ANY state supported college or university in Kentucky for tuition waiver.
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
 

WiN-WiN: Turning Food Waste into Community Meals

Host: Heather Norman-Burgdolf, PhD, Associate Extension Professor for Nutrition and Health, University of Kentucky Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment
Guest: Dawn Brewer, PhD, RD, Associate Professor, Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition
Season 8, Episode 27
Guest host Dr. Heather Norman-Burgdolf talks with Dr. Dawn Brewer, Associate Professor and Registered Dietitian at the University of Kentucky, about the WiN-WiN (Waste Not, Want Not) pilot program that redirects surplus produce to feed food-insecure residents in Jessamine County. They discuss how the program connects farmers, gardeners, markets, and local feeding partners to reduce landfill waste and increase availability to nutritious food.
The episode outlines WiN-WiN’s local partners — including Revived Life House, the Man of Meals program at Nicholasville Methodist Church, the Jesmond County Food Pantry, the Kentucky United Methodist Children’s independent living program, and Bethel Harvest — and explains the program’s focus on logistics, food safety, recipes, toolkits, and training to help organizations use and preserve donated foods.
Listeners also hear national food-waste facts, practical tips to reduce waste at home (meal planning, proper storage, using “ugly” produce, freezing, and repurposing leftovers), and ways to get involved: donate produce, volunteer with transport or partner organizations, and access WiN-WiN resources online and on social media.
For more information:
WiN-WiN Pilot Program Website
Follow WiN-WiN on Social Media
Facebook
Instagram
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
 

The Eight Dimensions of Wellness: Small Steps, Big Impact

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 24
In the episode of  Talking FACS host Mindy McCulley sits down with guest Dr. Monica Mundy, Extension Specialist for Family and Community Health. They explore the eight dimensions of wellness — emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual — and discuss why balance across these areas matters for overall quality of life.
Dr. Mundy explains the "wellness wheel" metaphor and offers practical, research-based strategies listeners can use: mindfulness and journaling for emotional health; decluttering and accessing green spaces for environmental wellness; budgeting and small savings for financial security; puzzles and lifelong learning for intellectual wellness; setting boundaries and finding satisfaction for occupational wellness; daily movement, better sleep, and nutrition for physical wellness; nurturing supportive relationships for social wellness; and meditation, prayer, or gratitude practices for spiritual wellness.
The episode emphasizes starting small: take an inventory of the eight areas, pick one realistic step, and build habits over time to create lasting balance and improved wellbeing.
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
 
 

Honoring Military Families: Ideas & Resources for Military Family Month

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 19 
Host Mindy McCauley visits with Dr. Kerri Ashurst, Senior Extension Specialist for Family and Relationship Development, about National Military Family Month (the month of November), what it means, and how communities can honor and support military families.
Topics include practical recognition ideas (care packages, community events, discounts, flying the flag), volunteer opportunities, sharing and preserving military family stories, and ways to support military children and spouses. Local resources such as care-package organizations and extension programs are highlighted.
Listeners will learn simple, actionable ways to show gratitude—from writing cards and offering practical help to creating events and listening to service stories—and where to find more information through the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Program.
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about this topic or any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
          Website
          Facebook
          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel

Many Roads to Recovery: Celebrating Individual Paths This Recovery Month

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 8, Episode 13
In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley talks with Dr. Alex Elswick, Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, about the many pathways to recovery. They discuss why recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process and how individual factors—like mental health, trauma, family, work, and values—shape different routes to healing.
Topics covered include common and lesser-known recovery pathways (from abstinence and 12-step programs to SMART recovery, faith-based approaches, medically assisted treatment, and informal recovery without formal help), the stigma surrounding certain treatments, and the importance of matching pathways to a person’s goals and life circumstances. Dr. Elswick emphasizes trial-and-error, the role of support systems, and the need to validate all recovery experiences.
Listeners will gain practical insight into how to support loved ones in recovery and why celebrating all recovery journeys strengthens families and 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

The Impact of Drug Seizures on Overdoses

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 approaches and potential solutions, providing listeners with a deep understanding of this critical issue affecting our 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

Unveiling the Hidden Threat: Xylazine in the Drug Supply

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 also explores methods used to detect Xylazine presence in communities, including innovative wastewater analysis. As the discussion unfolds, listeners gain an understanding of the broader context of drug contamination and the pressing need for enhanced public awareness.
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

Unraveling the Twin Epidemic

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 alike.
The discussion emphasizes the integral role of the Extension in combating substance use by fostering health and wellness through improving nutrition, physical health, relationships, and finances. This episode is a call to action for community engagement in building recovery capital and addressing the root causes of addiction.
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