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

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
Kristen Jowers, Extension Specialist for OneOp, delves into strategies for to maximizing college savings as families continue to face the escalating costs of a college education.
From the staggering costs of tuition and fees to the benefits of the Kentucky Saves 529 plan, this episode provides invaluable insights for parents, grandparents, and guardians. Discover how early and consistent savings can lighten the financial burden and explore the power of compound interest and tax advantages.
Kristen shares her personal journey of applying for scholarships and offers practical advice on how students can make college more affordable. Learn about the importance of merit-based scholarships, the new FAFSA process, and strategies for responsible borrowing and repayment of student loans.
Don’t miss this comprehensive guide to navigating the financial landscape of higher education, complete with special tips for military families.
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KY Saves
KY Scholarships and Grants
StudentAid.Gov
GI Bill Benefits
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Protecting Your Assets with Insurance

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guest: Dr. Nichole Huff, Extension Specialist for Family Finance and Resource Management
Season 7, Episode 1
Insurance is an expense we simply must cannot afford to go without. When we fail to protect our health, homes, or automobiles we are not only gambling with our assets but with the financial security of our family.
In this episode, we explore the indispensable types of insurance that safeguard our financial future. From automobile to homeowners or renters, and health insurance, Dr. Nichole Huff provides essential insights and practical advice on ensuring you have the right coverage. Discover the mandatory insurance requirements in Kentucky, understand the nuances of home and renters insurance, and unravel the complexities of health insurance terminology.
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How Consumer Protection Agencies Safeguard Our Daily Lives

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 6, Episode 47
This captivating conversation with Kelly May, Senior Extension Associate for Family Finance and Resource Management, unravels the crucial roles of three major consumer protection agencies: the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Discover how the FTC ensures fair competition and protects consumers from misleading advertising and scams. Learn about the CFPB's mission to oversee financial institutions and safeguard consumers from deceptive practices in the financial realm. Finally, explore the FDA's vital work in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of our food and medical products.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about how these agencies work tirelessly to protect our rights and interests, making our daily transactions safer and more transparent. Tune in to understand the intricate mechanisms that keep us secure in the marketplace and beyond.
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Understanding Retirement Plans and Preparing for a Secure Future

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 6, Episode 43
If you find the term 'Investing' to be daunting, this episode of Talking FACS might help you reframe the concept. We discuss the topic of investing in oneself by understanding and planning for retirement.
Listeners will learn about different types of retirement plans, such as defined benefit and defined-contribution plans, and understand how to compare them when changing jobs. We discuss why planning for retirement is essential and what aspects, like health and long-term goals, to consider when planning.
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Major Appliance Purchases

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 6, Episode 38
From understanding the principles of "need vs. want" and the importance of budgeting, to the art of comparison shopping and recognizing true value beyond brand names and prices, we equip you with the tools to make an informed choice while shopping for major household appliances. We dissect the differences in purchasing in cities and rural areas, and highlights the benefits of buying local and the potential deals at small retailers. Using these tips, not only will you be ready to shop in-store, but also to navigate the world of online shopping!
We also discuss and demystify often overlooked aspects of cost, such as the long-term operation and maintenance charges, hidden fees like delivery and installation, and even potential savings opportunities through tax write-offs when donating older equipment. The podcast ends with an insightful discussion on extended warranties to ensure you understand their true value and other warranty options that might already be available to you.
 
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Allowances: Life Skill Building

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 34
Allowances can be excellent life skill building tools if parents put a bit of forethought into the process.  On this episode of Talking FACS, Dr. David Weisenhorn shares many of the benefits of giving children allowances and strategies for helping them begin to develop financial management skills on a small scale.
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The Cost of Convenience

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guest: Dr. Nichole Huff, Extension Specialist for Family Finance and Resource Management
Season 6, Episode 25
We have become an "on demand" society, but this convenience comes at a price. On this episode of Talking FACS, Dr. Nichole Huff discusses the real cost of convenience, both to our wallets and to the other things we might be sacrificing so that we can have things delivered directly as soon as we want them.
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Organizing your time and spaces

Host: Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky 
Guests:  Miranda Bejda, Graduate Assistant for Family and Consumer Sciences Extension
Season 6, Episode 12
When people want to maximize the productivity, whether at home or at work, one of the ways to make a major impact is to prioritize organization. Your calendar and spaces can become overly cluttered which might cause you to feel at loose ends and unable to complete any task effectively.  On this episode of Talking FACS, Miranda Bejda share tips for organizing your time and space for maximum productivity.
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