Talking FACS

The Four Pillars of a Fulfilling Retirement

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 12
Welcome to Talking FACS with host Mindy McCulley. In this episode Mindy talks with Caroline Francis, director of University of Kentucky Alumni Career Services, about the four pillars that research shows make retirement (and semi-retirement) healthier, more meaningful, and more sustainable.
Caroline outlines the four pillars—health and wellness, social and emotional connections (combating loneliness), lifelong learning, and work/purpose—and explains why each matters. She cites research like the Harvard Grant Study and examples such as Blue Zones to show how diet, movement, relationships, continued learning, and purposeful work support longevity and quality of life.
Listeners will hear practical tips for planning an intentional retirement:
start healthy habits early
prioritize close relationships and cross‑generational friendships
explore local learning programs (OLLI, Donovan, community centers)
consider encore careers or volunteer roles
Caroline also highlights UK Alumni Career Services (membership benefits include coaching sessions) and resources available to help with the non‑financial sides of retirement.
For more information visit the UK Alumni Association:
Website
Facebook
Job Club
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

What's Behind Food Processing? 'Ultra-Processed' Foods Explained

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Kentucky
Guest: Anna Cason, RD Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition
Season 8, Episode 11
In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley talks with Anna Cason, Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition, about the spectrum of food processing — from simple packaging to ultra-processing. They explore why foods are processed, when processing can be beneficial (fortification, extended shelf life, accessibility), and when ultra-processed options may be less nutrient-dense.
Key points include
how to identify ultra-processed foods,
what to watch for on Nutrition Facts labels (added sugars, sodium, saturated fat), and
practical advice for building a balanced diet using fresh, frozen, canned, and fortified options.
Listeners are encouraged to use dietary guidelines, read labels, and contact their local Extension for personalized help.
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: Asking for Help After a Disaster

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 and Danielle Hagler, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent, Nelson County
Season 8, Episode 10
On this episode of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley visits with Kelly May, Senior Extension Associate for Family Finance and Resource Management, and Danielle Hagler, FCS Extension Agent in Nelson County, about how to ask for help after experience a disaster. They discuss the Extension Disaster Strike Teams, financial assistance options (lenders, utilities, insurance, crowdsourcing), housing resources including FEMA and temporary lodging, and tips for documenting damage and meeting deadlines.
The conversation also covers immediate needs like food and clothing, safe ways to accept donations or set up wish lists, mental-health resources and hotline 988, and guidance for both those asking for and offering help. Listeners will learn practical steps, trusted resources, and where to find Extension publications and local support in Kentucky.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit:
Disaster Assistance
FEMA
Navigating Trauma After a Natural Disaster
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

When Partners Parent Differently: Creating a Unified Team

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 9
On this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley talks with Dr. David Weisenhorn, Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development, about what to do when partners parent differently. They explain the four parenting styles (authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, uninvolved), share research insights , and emphasize that differing styles can complement one another.
Key takeaways include practical strategies for parenting as a team:
compromise without one person losing
communicate regularly
avoid putting children in the middle
disagree privately
support each other’s strengths, and
involve grandparents consistently.
The episode also highlights extension parenting classes as a resource to learn your style and grow together as parents.
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

Liver Cancer Explained: Risks, Treatments, and Hope

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 
Guest: Dr. Mautin Barry-Hundeyin, MD Assistant Professor, Surgical Oncology, UK Markey Cancer Center 
Cancer Conversations Episode 67
Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS Host Mindy McCulley speaks with Dr. Mautin Barry-Hundeyin, Assistant Professor of Surgical Oncology at UK Markey Cancer Center, about liver cancer—what it is, how it spreads, and why Kentucky sees higher rates. They cover primary and secondary liver cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and major risk factors such as hepatitis B and C, alcohol, obesity/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and smoking.
The episode reviews diagnosis and multidisciplinary care at UK Markey, plus current treatments: surgical resection and liver transplant, interventional radiology options (embolization, TACE, Y90), stereotactic body radiation, and emerging systemic therapies like targeted drugs and checkpoint immunotherapy. Listeners will learn what to expect, prevention considerations, and how to access UK Markey resources for questions and care.
Connect with the UK Markey Center
Online Markey Cancer Center
On Facebook @UKMarkey
On X @UKMarkey

Protecting Kids from Measles: What Parents 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 8, Episode 8
In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley is joined by Katherine Jury, Extension Specialist for Family Health, to discuss the recent surge in measles cases and how to protect vulnerable populations—especially young children. They cover the MMR vaccine schedule (first dose at 12–15 months, booster at 4–6 years), vaccine effectiveness (about 97%), and why vaccination helps prevent community spread. The conversation addresses common concerns about vaccine side effects versus disease complications, the risks measles poses (including pneumonia and neurological issues), and how measles spreads easily through airborne particles.
Katherine explains how adults can check their vaccination status through the Kentucky Vaccine Registry, request immunity testing, or receive a booster if uncertain. They emphasize the importance of community immunity, current kindergarten vaccination rates in Kentucky (around 86–87%), and practical steps parents and caregivers can take—consulting pediatricians, contacting local Extension offices, and staying informed to protect children and communities.
For more information:
Kentucky Immunization Record Portal
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

Mastering Sleep for New Parents: Sleep Protection Plans

Host: Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Guest: Rachèle Yadon, MD Assistant Professor for Psychiatry, UK College of Medicine, UK Healthcare
Season 8, Episode 7
Welcome to another insightful episode of Talking FACS with guest host Dr. Courtney Luecking from the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Program. Today, Dr. Luecking is joined by Dr. Rachèle Yadon, an Assistant Professor and Psychiatry Residency Training Program Director at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. The focus of their discussion is on creating effective sleep protection plans, especially for new parents navigating the challenges of early parenthood.
The episode delves into the concept of sleep protection, a strategy designed to ensure parents get uninterrupted sleep, even when caring for infants who require frequent attention. Dr. Yadon explains how sleep protection plans can be a game-changer for maintaining parental well-being, offering practical solutions such as designating night and morning shifts and supporting breastfeeding parents with structured approaches.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the physiological changes during the perinatal period and the importance of sleep for cognitive function and mental health. The episode also highlights various resources and support systems available for parents struggling with sleep, including online communities and professional help.
Join us in exploring how thoughtful sleep strategies can transform the early parenting experience and learn tips that are applicable even beyond the realm of parenthood.
For more information about this topic:
National Maternal & Child Health Hotline 1-833-TLC-MAMA
Postpartum Support International
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
 

Tackling Childhood Hunger: The Impact of Backpack Programs

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: LaToya Drake, MS Extension Specialist for Food Access and Engagement, Kentucky Nutrition Education Program
Season 8, Episode 5
In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley welcomes LaToya Drake, Extension Specialist for Food Access and Engagement with the Kentucky Nutrition Education Program.
They dive into the crucial role that Backpack programs play in alleviating childhood hunger in Kentucky. Discover how these community-driven initiatives discreetly provide nutritious food to children on weekends and during school breaks, ensuring they don't go hungry. Through heartwarming stories and practical advice, learn how educators, community groups, and volunteers collaborate to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and their families. Find out how you can support or get involved with local Backpack programs in your community.
To connect with Nutrition Education Program resources, visit:
PlanEatMove.com
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
 

Harnessing the Power of AI in Your Job Search

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 
Guest: Amy Gamblin, MA Associate Director of UK Alumni Career Services
Season 8, Episode 4
In this episode of Talking FACS, we delve into the significant impact of AI on the job search process with expert guest Amy Gamblin, the Associate Director of Alumni Career Services.
Amy and host Mindy McCulley discuss how AI tools like ChatGPT can serve as personal assistants in job hunting, offering support in areas such as career path suggestions, resume writing, interview preparation, and salary negotiations. While exploring the advantages AI provides, they also address common misconceptions, emphasizing that AI should supplement rather than replace personal strategies and authenticity.
The conversation explores practical advice, including privacy tips and the importance of crafting quality prompts to optimize AI usage. Despite the benefits, Amy underscores that AI cannot substitute real human interaction and networking—key elements in successful job searching.
Join us as we examine the balance between leveraging AI technology and maintaining a genuine personal touch in navigating your career journey. 
For more information visit the UK Alumni Association:
Website
Facebook
Job Club
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

Cancer Conversations: Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 
Guest: Dr. Erin Wolf-Horrell, MD Assistant Professor, Colorectal Surgery, UK Markey Cancer Center 
Cancer Conversations Episode 66
Join us on Cancer Conversations as Dr. Erin Wolf-Horrell, Assistant Professor of Colorectal Surgery at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center shares about the pressing issues of early-onset colorectal cancer affecting younger patients in Kentucky.
Dr. Wolf-Horrell discusses the trends and potential environmental factors contributing to the rise of colorectal cancer in individuals under 50. Gain understanding on how these cancers differ from those in older adults and learn about the unique symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and the importance of timely screening.
Explore why awareness and self-advocacy are crucial for early detection, especially given Kentucky's high incidence and mortality rates for colorectal cancer. This episode equips listeners with knowledge to better advocate for their health and highlights the need for increased vigilance and screening in younger populations.
Connect with the UK Markey Center
Online Markey Cancer Center
On Facebook @UKMarkey
On X @UKMarkey

Sleep for Wellbeing

Host: Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Guest: Rachèle Yadon, MD Assistant Professor for Psychiatry, UK College of Medicine, UK Healthcare
Season 8, Episode 3
In this intriguing episode of Talking Facts, guest host Dr. Courtney Luecking sits down with Dr. Rachèle Yadon, an assistant professor of psychiatry and director of the psychiatry residency training program at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. With extensive expertise in perinatal psychiatry, Dr. Yadon shares invaluable insights into the profound importance of sleep for both physical and mental health.
Dr. Yadon emphasizes that sleep is essential for physical restoration, memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and cognitive performance. Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to serious health issues, underscoring the need for deep, uninterrupted, and restorative sleep. The conversation explores common barriers to quality sleep, such as artificial light, stress, and lifestyle demands, offering practical solutions to overcome them.
Listeners will learn about the critical role of sleep hygiene practices, including consistent wake-up times, reserving the bed for sleep and intimacy, and creating a bedtime routine. The episode delves into the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) and provides resources for further support.
Join us for this enlightening discussion to improve your sleep quality and overall well-being. Whether you struggle with sleep or are seeking ways to enhance your rest, this episode offers a wealth of expert advice and actionable tips.
For more information about this topic:
Psychology Today
Sleep Disorders | Cleveland Clinic
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia
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