MoneyWi$e

MoneyWi$e: Organize Your Home on a Budget

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 8, Episode 32
Join Talking FACS host Mindy McCulley and guest Jeanne Badgett from the University of Kentucky FCS Extension for a practical episode about organizing without breaking the bank.
Strategies include:
decluttering first
grouping like items
establishing zones
repurposing containers, and
suggestions for when to invest in uniform storage
Key takeaways: toss broken items, sort and label for visibility, try no-cost solutions first (repurpose boxes, jars, trays), enlist a friend instead of hiring help, and remember clutter has both financial and opportunity costs.
Resources mentioned: Money Wise newsletter and your local Extension office for more tips and hands-on support.
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

MoneyWi$e Vision Boards for Financial Freedom

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guests: Kelly May, MS Senior Extension Associate for Family Finance and Resource Management 
Season 8, Episode 26
In this episode of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley talks with Kelly May, Senior Extension Associate for Family Resource Management, about using vision boards to support financial goals. They explain what a vision board is and why visualizing goals can motivate change.
The conversation covers how to set SMART financial goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound), an example focused on retirement and travel, and practical ways to create a vision board—digital or paper—plus tips for displaying it where you will see it daily to keep goals top of mind.
Listeners learn simple, actionable steps to turn dreams into plans and are invited to use this technique for short- or long-term goals. 
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$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

MoneyWi$e: FinTech at Your Fingertips

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guests: Kristen Jowers, MS Extension Specialist for One Op
Season 8, Episode 15
Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Kristen Jowers as they explore the world of financial technology on this episode of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS. They explain FinTech and how common tools—mobile banking, peer-to-peer payment apps, budgeting and debt-tracking tools, and credit monitoring—can simplify everyday money management.
Kristen and Mindy discuss security and privacy concerns, fees and tax reporting for payment apps, how to choose the right tools (features, testing, and costs), and practical tips for incorporating FinTech into family budgets. They highlight free and trusted resources like PowerPay and the Sense app for military families, and remind listeners to use FDIC-insured accounts and review credit reports regularly.
Expect clear, actionable advice for using FinTech responsibly, questions to ask when selecting apps, and links to Extension resources to help you get started managing money more confidently.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit:
PowerPay
Sen$e
MoneyWi$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
 
 

MoneyWi$e: Money Talks - Communication Tips for Talking about Money

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guests: Kristen Jowers, MS Extension Specialist for One Op and Barbara Breutinger, Family Financial Counseling Intern
Season 8, Episode 6
Join us in this episode of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS as we delve into the importance of discussing finances with loved ones. Our guests, Kristen Jowers, an Extension Specialist for OneOp, and Barbara Breutinger, an intern with Family Finance, share valuable insights on why communicating about money is crucial for reducing stress and enhancing relationship satisfaction.
Discover the reasons why money conversations can be challenging, learn how to select the right time for these discussions using the HALT acronym (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired), and explore open-ended questions to foster understanding and collaboration. Gain tips on managing conflicts and setting mutual financial goals to improve your family's financial health and freedom.
Furthermore, Kristen and Barbara offer guidance on the frequency of financial check-ins and recommend resources, such as the UK Cooperative Extension Service's free publications and PowerPay, a tool from Utah State University. Tune in to learn how money conversations can transform from a source of stress to a pathway for achieving financial security and harmony.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit:
MoneyWi$e Newsletter
MoneyWi$e Website
Utah State University's PowerPay
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
 

MoneyWi$e: Investing for Everyone

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$e on Talking FACS we delve into the essentials of investing with Kelly May and Barbara Breutinger who work on the Family Resource Management side of Family and Consumer Sciences Extension. This episode unravels the intriguing differences between saving and investing, emphasizing the power of compound interest and the potential of growing your wealth over time.
We discuss crucial investment strategies, focusing on the importance of starting early, regardless of age, and the benefits of employer retirement plans such as 401(k)s. Listeners will gain insights into building a diversified investment portfolio and understanding risk tolerance, along with tips on leveraging tax advantages and avoiding common pitfalls.
Whether you are new to investing or looking to enhance your financial strategy, this episode provides valuable advice to confidently navigate the investment landscape, ensuring you make informed decisions for a prosperous financial future.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$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
 
 

Stretching Your Dollar: What to do When the "Ends" Don't Meet

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$e on Talking FACS, host Mindy is joined by Dr. Nichole Huff, Assistant Extension Professor for Family Finance and Resource Management, to explore practical strategies for overcoming financial challenges faced by many today.
Dr. Huff sheds light on the shifting dynamics of income distribution in the U.S., noting the growing difficulty in keeping pace with rising expenses despite increased income levels. The conversation delves into the fundamental budget-balancing choices: increasing income or reducing expenses, and emphasizes the practicality of cutting expenses. From analyzing discretionary spending to managing fixed costs, listeners are equipped with actionable tips to identify and implement savings.
This episode highlights innovative approaches for reducing variable expenses, such as utilities, and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing essential needs. With insights from past generations on living sustainably and saving creatively, Dr. Huff encourages listeners to adopt budget-friendly habits that align with modern economic realities. Tune in to discover how small savings can lead to significant financial relief and learn ways to become money-wise in today's challenging economic landscape.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$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
 

Helping Neurodivergent Kids learn Financial Skills

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$e on Talking FACS, Mindy McCulley sits down with special guest, Whitney Holmes, Associate Director of Learning Services with CATS/UK Athletics to discus how neurodivergent children can be empowered with essential financial skills.
Whitney discusses the commonality of neurodivergence, the importance of a strengths-based approach, and how to leverage the unique abilities of neurodivergent individuals. This episode offers practical strategies for helping children with diverse learning profiles build financial competence.
Listeners will gain valuable insights on the benefits of starting financial education early, how to utilize school resources for support, and the importance of patience and adaptability when teaching kids financial literacy. Tune in to discover how these approaches not only benefit neurodivergent children but can enhance learning outcomes for all.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$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
 

MoneyWi$e: Forming Healthy Financial Habits

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 unsatisfying. Tune in to take the first step toward achieving your financial goals and improving your quality of life with science-backed strategies.
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

MoneyWi$e: 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
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

Budget Friendly Tips for Pet Owners

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Kristen Jowers, MS Extension Specialist for OneOp
Featuring: Copper the Basset Hound and Molly the Border Collie
 
Season 7, Episode 19
In this episode of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS, Kristen Jowers, Extension Specialist for OneOp ,delves into the financial considerations of pet ownership, particularly for military families.  Relying on research and experience from their own pet family members, Copper and Molly, Kristen and Mindy share insights into the unique considerations that pet ownership has on the family budget.
Kristen shares her expertise on the topic, emphasizing the often-overlooked financial impact of owning a pet. From upfront costs like adoption fees and vaccinations to recurring expenses such as food, grooming, and vet visits, Kristen highlights the importance of budgeting for these costs as part of family finances. She also discusses the significance of understanding specific breed requirements and offers practical tips for saving on pet expenses through DIY solutions and savvy shopping.
Additionally, the episode explores the unique challenges and benefits of pet ownership for military families, including the newly introduced Pet Transportation Allowance that supports families during relocations. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the emotional and social benefits of having a pet, as well as strategies for integrating pets into family life and managing related responsibilities.
Tune in to discover how pets can enrich family dynamics and learn about resources available through the OneOp community for professionals working with military families. Whether you are a current pet owner, like Mindy and Kristen, or considering bringing a furry friend into your home, this episode provides essential guidance to ensure a rewarding pet ownership experience.
For more information about One Op, visit:
One Op
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit:
Pet Transportation Allowance for Military families
The Unique Costs of Military Pet Ownership
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

MoneyWi$e: Saving Money on Clothing Care

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 14
Jeanne Badgett unravels the myths surrounding clothing care to help listeners find strategies for saving money. She provides guidance on everything from keeping your equipment in sound, working order the ensure that they are working effectively to sorting your clothing by fabric type to maximize the cleaning capacity of detergents.
After a brief discussion on types of stains and the best ways to treat them, Jeanne provides tips for preventing excessive wear on your favorite garments. She also provides suggestions for repairing rather than replacing clothing and provides ideas for using second-hand and consignment retailers for additional savings. Enjoy this cleaning journey as you consider ways that you too can save money on that monthly household expense.
For more information about stain removal:
American Cleaning Institute's Stain Removal Guide
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

MoneyWi$e: Building an Emergency Kit on a Budget

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Preservation
Season 7, Episode 10
In this MoneyWi$e Episode, we highlight the importance of being prepared for emergencies, especially during National Preparedness Month. Joining us today is Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Food Preservation, sharing invaluable insights on how to build an emergency kit without breaking the bank.
We discuss the essential elements of an emergency kit, including the need for non-perishable foods and a reliable water supply. She offers practical tips for utilizing items you already have at home and purchasing supplies over time to ease the financial burden. She also emphasizes the importance of rotating supplies and checking expiration dates.
Additionally, Annhall provides expert advice on choosing the right containers for water storage and the benefits of having a weather radio. We also touch upon the small comforts, like including your favorite sweet treat, to lift spirits during stressful times.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$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