Making Healthy Choices

Be a Responsible Information Consumer

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. Discover how applying these concepts can prevent the spread of misinformation and promote responsible sharing in today’s fast-paced digital world.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit:
MoneyWi$e Newsletter
MoneyWi$e Website
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Unlocking Positivity: The Power of Kindness and Gratitude

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Kerri Ashurst, PhD, Extension Specialist for Family and Relationship Development
Season 7, Episode 22
On this episode of Talking FACS, Dr. Kerri Ashurst discusses practical strategies for shifting focus toward positivity and expressing gratitude in everyday life, emphasizing how small changes in mindset can significantly improve happiness and reduce stress levels.
The discussion also highlights the impact of gratitude on self-worth and behavior, both for oneself and for others, and offers insights on how to incorporate gratitude practices, like journaling or simple acknowledgments, into daily routines. Join us to learn how practicing thankfulness can transform your mental well-being and foster a more positive outlook on life.
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Navigating the Complexities of Hospice Care

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky 
Guests: Brittany Thompson, Provider Liaison, Bluegrass Care Navigators and Amy Kostelic, PhD Associate Extension Professor for Adult Development and Aging
Season 7, Episode 21
Brittany Thompson, Bluegrass Care Navigator Provider Liaison, and Dr. Amy Kostelic, Associate Extension Professor for Adult Development and Aging return to delve into the often misunderstood world of hospice care, focusing on the challenges and barriers faced by patients and families during this pivotal time.
The discussion begins with Brittany addressing common misconceptions about hospice care and the importance of shifting goals toward enhancing quality of life. The conversation highlights the emotional and psychological challenges caregivers face, including the transition to a caregiving role and dealing with anticipatory grief. The episode also explores the financial burdens that families may encounter and the need for proper resources and support.
Amy emphasizes the importance of self-care for caregivers and introduces the "Living with Loss" series offered by the Family Consumer Sciences Extension. This series includes vital self-care strategies for caregivers who often struggle to balance their own emotional needs while providing care for loved ones.
The episode concludes with a discussion on the comprehensive support offered by hospice care, including 24/7 phone support and the integration of an interdisciplinary team to assist families through their journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of hospice care and the resources available to support caregivers and families.
For more information about Bluegrass Care Navigators:
Bluegrass Care Navigators
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Navigating End-of-Life Care: Understanding Hospice Services

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky 
Guests: Brittany Thompson, Provider Liaison, Bluegrass Care Navigators and Amy Kostelic, PhD Associate Extension Professor for Adult Development and Aging
Season 7, Episode 20
In this insightful episode of Talking FACS Brittany Thompson, Bluegrass Care Navigators Provider Liaison, and Dr. Amy Kostelic, Associate Extension Professor for Adult Development and Aging, discuss the critical role of hospice care in enhancing quality of life during one's final months.
The episode explores the comprehensive services offered by hospice, emphasizing its team-based approach that includes medical, emotional, and spiritual support. Brittany clarifies common misconceptions about hospice, highlighting it as a service rather than a place, and explains how it aims to provide comfort and fulfill the wishes of patients and their families.
Listeners will learn about the eligibility criteria for hospice care, the importance of early planning, and the ways hospice supports families even after the passing of a loved one. The conversation also addresses societal challenges in discussing end-of-life transitions and underscores the value of hospice in improving caregiver well-being and reducing depression among the bereaved.
This episode is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand end-of-life care options and the profound impact of hospice services. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how hospice care can provide comfort and support during life's most challenging transitions.
For more information about Bluegrass Care Navigators:
Bluegrass Care Navigators
For more information about palliative care resources, listen to Cancer Conversations
Understanding Palliative and Supportive Care
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Staying Up-to-Date with Adult Vaccines: What You Need to Know

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guests: Katherine Jury, MS Extension Specialist for Family Health
Season 7, Episode 18
In this insightful episode of Talking FACS, Katherine Jury, Extension Specialist for Family Health, shares about the importance of adult vaccinations. With a startling statistic that 75% of American adults are missing recommended vaccines, this engaging discussion sheds light on why staying updated with vaccines is essential.
The episode delves into the reasons why adult vaccination is vital, including reducing the risk of severe disease and preventing the spread of illnesses. Katherine highlights key vaccines such as the annual flu and COVID vaccines, T-dap, shingles, and pneumococcal vaccines, while also addressing the importance of personalized vaccine schedules based on age, medical history, and lifestyle factors.
Listeners will gain insights into the role of vaccines in combating hard-to-treat diseases and the significance of regular health check-ups for preventative care. Tune in to learn how a proactive approach to vaccinations can enhance quality of life and protect community health.
Learn more at:
Adult vaccination schedule
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.
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Food Safety Fundamentals: Clean, Separate, Cook, Chill

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Preservation
Season 7, Episode 13
In this episode of Talking FACS, Annhall Norris unpacks the four fundamental principles of food safety: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill. Learn the importance of proper handwashing techniques, the best practices for cleaning produce, and why using a meat thermometer is crucial for cooking. Discover the necessity of separating raw and cooked foods in your grocery cart, refrigerator, and on your cutting boards to prevent cross-contamination.
Annhalll also emphasizes the significance of chilling food appropriately, including tips on safe thawing methods and the critical two-hour rule for cooked food left at room temperature. This episode is filled with practical advice to help you keep your family safe from food-borne illnesses, which affect one in six Americans each year.
Tune in to gain valuable insights and ensure your kitchen practices are up to par with food safety standards. Don't miss out on this informative session that could make a significant difference in your household's health!
For more information, visit:
Food Facts
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.
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Fresh and Frugal Feast: Seasonal and Local Eating on a Budget

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: LaToya Drake, Extension Specialist for Food Equity and Food Access, Kentucky Nutrition Education Program
Season 7, Episode 9
LaToya Drake shares her expertise on the benefits of consuming locally sourced produce, including cost-effective strategies and the positive impact on local economies.
Listeners will learn about defining local eating, the advantages of seasonal menus, and practical tips for saving money, such as utilizing EBT benefits at farmers markets and exploring Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. LaToya also highlights available resources from the Extension and Kentucky Nutrition Education Program to help you grow your own food and create delicious recipes using local ingredients.
Tune in to discover how you can enjoy a varied, nutritious diet while supporting local farmers and making the most out of seasonal produce. Don't forget to check out the links in the show notes for additional resources and to locate your nearest Extension office.
To Connect with Nutrition Education Program resources, visit:
PlatEatMove.com
To access Plate it up! Kentucky Proud resouces, visit:
Plate it up! Kentucky Proud
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What is Alpha-gal Syndrome?

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Heather Norman-Burgdolf, PhD, Assistant Extension Professor for Nutrition and Health
Season 7, Episode 8
In this captivating discussion, discover the origins and rise of Alpha-gal Syndrome, first identified in 2002 and confirmed in 2007. Learn how Lone Star ticks can inject a sugar molecule into the human bloodstream, causing delayed allergic reactions that challenge both patients and healthcare providers.
Dr. Norman-Burgdolf shares invaluable insights into the symptoms, diagnosis, and management of Alpha-gal, emphasizing the importance of dietary changes and the hidden risks in everyday products. From organ meats to prescribed medications, the conversation reveals the extensive impact of this condition.
Explore practical strategies to prevent tick bites and safeguard your health, especially during the active months of March to August. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or simply curious about this fascinating syndrome, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and actionable advice.
For more information about Alpha-gal Syndrome, click the links below:
Life with Alpha-Gal
CDC - Alpha-Gal Syndrome
NIH - Alpha Gal Research Article
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Easing the Pain of Childhood Vaccinations

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Katherine Jury, MS Extension Specialist for Family and Health
Season 7, Episode 5
In this insightful episode, discover the secrets to making the vaccination process smoother for both parents and children. From understanding the importance of vaccines to practical tips for easing discomfort, Katherine Jury shares valuable strategies to transform a daunting experience into a manageable one. Learn how to have productive conversations with healthcare providers, the role of comfort measures, and the power of honest, age-appropriate discussions with your child.
Whether it's choosing the right distraction, bringing a favorite stuffed animal, or offering a small treat, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help parents navigate the vaccination journey with confidence.
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.
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Alcohol Myths

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 6, Episode 44
Dr. Alex Elswick, Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, discusses widely believed alcohol myths and dismantles them with factual information.
With substance use being a pervasive concern, we clarify misconceptions about alcohol use, some as common as; 'alcohol is not a drug', 'people with alcohol problems drink alcohol daily' and 'because kids in Europe begin drinking at an earlier age, they drink more responsibly'. As the discussion unfolds, it becomes apparent how these myths not only misinform society but also contribute to an oblique understanding of alcohol-related issues.
Listen in to learn more about the facts behind these myths, how they impact public health, and the importance of accurate information in promoting healthier life choices. This episode encourages listeners to take a more informed approach towards alcohol use. In the end, it is the debunking of alcohol myths and the propagation of correct information that will lead to a healthier society.
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The High Risk Upper GI Clinic at Markey Cancer Center

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guest: Tamara Carey, APRN Oncology Surgical Care Team, High Risk Upper GI Clinic, UK Markey Cancer Center
Cancer Conversations Episode 54
On this episode of Cancer Conversation we take a look at the the critical role played by Oncology Advanced Providers at the Markey Cancer Center.  Our goal is to clarify the responsibilities of a surgical oncology advanced provider and outlines the comprehensive care provided from pre-op through post surgical surveillance. Furthermore, she discusses her care for high-risk patients who may have genetic dispositions to cancer or existing risk factors.
Connect with the UK Markey Center
Online Markey Cancer Center
On Facebook @UKMarkey
On Twitter @UKMarkey

Strategies for a Healthy Digital Lifestyle

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development  
Season 6, Episode 40
Dr. David Wiesenhorn, our Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development, presents practical strategies for managing and understanding our screen time. He inspires listeners to take a moment of reflection and ask key questions such as: "Am I being mindful?", "Am I being kind?" and "Am I being constructive?" among others as we consider the time we spend on phones and other digital devices. These questions aid in promoting conscious use of digital devices, encouraging a healthier and more beneficial digital lifestyle.
He also points out the research from Boston Children's Hospital's Digital Wellness Lab that throws light on the same. The episode nudges listeners to reevaluate their online habits, prioritize personal connections, and make choices that promote mental, emotional health. Tune in for some insights on maintaining a healthy balance in this digital age.
For more information:
Family Guide to Digital Wellness
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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