Talking FACS

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
 

Alcohol’s Cancer Risk — What Every Kentuckian Should Know

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 
Guest: Dr. Leah Winer, MD Assistant Professor of Surgery, University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center
Cancer Conversations Episode 70
In this episode of Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley welcomes Dr. Leah Winer, Assistant Professor of Surgery in the Division of Surgical Oncology at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center, to unpack the Surgeon General's advisory linking alcohol consumption to increased cancer risk.
They discuss why public awareness of the alcohol–cancer connection is low, how alcohol causes harm at the cellular level, and why even small amounts may raise risk. Dr. Winer explains which cancers are most strongly connected to alcohol—mouth and throat cancers, larynx, breast, liver, esophageal, and colorectal cancers—and how alcohol may compound other risks like smoking or obesity.
The conversation covers implications of the advisory, including potential warning labels on alcoholic beverages, reassessment of drinking guidelines, and gaps in research (patterns of drinking, age of initiation, and whether risk falls after stopping). Practical advice includes: don’t start drinking if you don’t already, consider reducing or stopping intake, know your family history and screening recommendations, and seek support for dependence when needed.
Tune in for clear, research-based guidance on reducing cancer risk and how to translate the Surgeon General’s advisory into day-to-day choices for better health.
Connect with the UK Markey Center
Online Markey Cancer Center
On Facebook @UKMarkey
On X @UKMarkey

Boundaries that Protect Your Time, Energy & Relationships

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guests: Natese Dockery, PhD Assistant Clinical Professor and Extension Specialist for Mental Health and Well-being
Season 8, Episode 28
In this episode of Talking FACS, Dr. Natese Dockery explores what healthy boundaries are, why they matter, and how poor boundaries can lead to burnout, resentment, and health problems. The episode defines different types of boundaries (physical, emotional, time, mental) and highlights common signs you may need stronger limits.
Dr. Dockery shares practical steps listeners can use right away:
identify needs and limits,
choose which boundaries to set,
use clear I-statements to communicate limits, and
stay consistent while prioritizing self-care.
Listeners will learn that setting boundaries is essential—not selfish—for protecting mental well-being and improving relationships.
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
 

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

Raising Thankful Kids: Simple Habits That Build Gratitude

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development  
Season 8, Episode 25
In this episode of Talking FACS, Host Mindy McCulley speaks with Dr. David Weisenhorn, Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development, about how to raise thankful kids and why gratitude matters.
They review research showing grateful children experience higher well-being, stronger relationships, better academics, increased resilience, optimism, and social connection.
The episode offers practical strategies parents can use:
modeling gratitude,
regular conversations,
a simple “three things” practice,
drawing or journaling with young children,
writing thank-you notes,
acts of service (like baking and sharing), and
using a gratitude jar.
They emphasize starting early, making practices consistent but not forced, and building intrinsic motivation over time.
Listeners can expect short, research-backed tips and ready-to-use family rituals to help children grow more grateful, empathetic, and resilient.
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
 

Hope in Tailored Care: Personalized Vaccines for Pancreatic Cancer

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 
Guest: Dr. Joseph Kim, MD Professor and Chief of Surgical Oncology, University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center
Cancer Conversations Episode 69
Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS welcomes Dr. Joseph Kim, Professor and Chief of Surgical Oncology at the University of Kentucky, to discuss pancreatic cancer — a rising and deadly disease. They cover why pancreatic cancer is often detected late, common symptoms such as jaundice, the role of family history, and the single most important modifiable risk factor: smoking.
The episode highlights an exciting individualized vaccine approach using tumor sequencing to create patient-specific vaccines sent from Europe after surgical removal of resectable tumors — intended to prevent or delay recurrence rather than prevent the initial disease. Eligibility, limitations (must be surgically removable), and the broader potential for vaccine technology in other cancers are explained.
Listeners will learn practical takeaways:
seek medical attention for persistent or new symptoms,
discuss family history and risk with providers, and
learn about ongoing clinical trials and resources at UK Markey Cancer Center for patients in Kentucky and surrounding areas.
Connect with the UK Markey Center
Online Markey Cancer Center
On Facebook @UKMarkey
On X @UKMarkey

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
 
 

MoneyWi$e: Financial Survival Tips for the Sandwich Generation

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 23
Welcome to MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS. In this episode Kristen Jowers (OneOp Extension Specialist) and Barbara Breutinger (Family Resource Management Intern) explore the realities of the Sandwich Generation — adults simultaneously raising children and supporting aging parents.
They define who fits this group, share key statistics about prevalence and caregiving hours, and outline the unique financial and emotional pressures these caregivers face, including costs for education, housing, healthcare, and lost work opportunities.
The episode presents four practical steps:
keep family and parent budgets separate to protect benefits,
prioritize your own retirement savings,
explore assistance programs (Medicaid, Medicare, SSI, VA, and community resources), and
seek professional help while accepting practical support from friends and family.
Special attention is given to military families, highlighting relocation and deployment challenges and resources such as VA caregiver programs, Military OneSource counseling, and OneOp Medicaid guidance.
Listeners will find actionable tips, resource links in the show notes, and encouragement to start family conversations and create a sustainable plan that protects both loved ones and their own financial future.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit:
MoneyWi$e Newsletter
How Can We Communicate Without Conflict?
VA Caregiver Support Program
Medicaid and Military Connected Families
UK Elder Care Resources
For more information about other MoneyWi$e topics, visit:
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

Holiday Meals on a Budget

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: LaToya Drake, MS Communications Director, The Food Connection
Season 8, Episode 22
As we wrap up  our self-proclaimed Stretching Your Food Budget Week, host Mindy McCulley and guest LaToya Drake from The Food Connection share a compact guide to planning holiday meals without blowing your budget. They discuss practical strategies for saving money on traditional dishes, including choosing smaller cuts of meat, using seasonal or sale produce, ingredient substitutions, and inviting guests to help.
The episode explains a five-trip shopping strategy to spread spending and reduce last-minute stress, plus tips for shopping your pantry and freezer first, rotating older items, and stretching meals with staples like potatoes, rice, and beans.
Expect actionable, research-based advice for keeping holiday traditions while trimming costs and time in the kitchen so you can focus on gathering with loved ones.
For more information:
Planning Holiday Meals on A Thrifty Budget
To connect with Nutrition Education Program resources, visit:
PlanEatMove.com
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

Pantry Power: Stretch Your Food Budget with Pantry Staples

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Heather Norman-Burgdolf, PhD, Associate Extension Professor for Nutrition and Health
Season 8, Episode 21
Join Mindy McCulley and Dr. Heather Norman-Burgdolf as they explore how everyday pantry staples can stretch your food budget while keeping meals nutritious and satisfying. This episode of Talking FACS covers practical, research-based ideas focusing on making your pantry work for you.
Topics include:
creative uses for pasta (try a spaghetti stir-fry),
split pea and rice bowls,
using dried beans for tacos and soups to stretch servings, and
versatile uses for powdered (dry) milk in baking and breakfasts.
They discuss cost-saving tips like buying canned and dried goods in bulk, simple meal-building techniques, and the nutritional benefits of legumes and whole-grain or legume-based pastas.
Key takeaways: assemble meals from pantry basics, add small twists to avoid meal ruts, and use Extension resources  for recipes and step-by-step guides to save money and feed your family well.
For recipe ideas, visit:
Plate it up! Kentucky Proud 
Plan Eat Move
Daily Meal Ideas (30 days of meal ideas using pantry staples)
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
 

Fighting Hunger Together: How Communities Can Support Food-Insecure Families

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 8, Episode 20
Welcome to Talking FACS, where host Mindy McCulley is joined by Dr. Courtney Luecking, Extension Specialist for Food and Nutrition, to discuss how communities can respond when families face food insecurity.
They cover what immediate support looks like — sharing information about local food banks and pantries, soup kitchens, school breakfast and lunch programs, Meals on Wheels and congregate meals for older adults, WIC, SNAP, and food recovery efforts like Glean Kentucky — and explain how eligibility, schedules, and program changes affect access.
The conversation highlights ways neighbors and community members can help:
checking in on friends and family,
reducing stigma,
inviting someone to a shared meal,
donating money (which often stretches farther for organizations),
volunteering time and other service,
They emphasize the importance of coordinating with existing local efforts so help is efficient and sustained.  Also recognizing long-term solutions and practical resources — including the University of Kentucky Extension offices for meal planning, budgeting, gardening, and cooking classes — and encouraging listeners to take one small step this week to support someone in need.
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