Talking FACS

Episode7: Phoning Friends for Professional Support with Feeding Concerns

Hosts:
Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Anna Cason, RDN, LD, Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky 
Guests:
Jamie Adkins, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC Speech Language Pathologist and Lactation Consultant
Suzanna Attia, MD, MScPH Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutrition
Sarah Estill, MAS, RD, LD Maternal and Child Nutrition
Kentucky Children's Hospital
 
Join hosts Dr. Courtney Luecking and Anna Cason in this enlightening episode of SNACK Club as they delve into the complex world of childhood nutrition. With the help of special guests Jamie Adkins, Dr. Suzanna Attia, and Sarah Estill, this episode covers a broad range of childhood feeding topics.
Discover practical, science-based strategies for creating a nourishing feeding environment, learn about the red flags for when to seek professional help, and explore the roles of various specialists such as speech-language pathologists and registered dietitians. Our experts also share personal anecdotes and professional insights, providing a holistic view of how to support healthy food-related behaviors in children.
Whether you are a parent, caregiver, or educator, this episode offers valuable information and resources to help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of feeding children. Don't miss out on these digestible bits of wisdom designed to support happy, healthy kids.
Come for the SNACKS and stay for the SUPPORT.
For more information, visit these resources mentioned in this episode:
Bright futures
Healthy Children - AAP Website
GI for kids website (NA society for GI, hepatology, nutrition)
Feedingmatters.org
CDC’s Developmental Milestones
Kids eat in color RD blog
To connect with Snack Club resources:
SNACK Club website
Big Blue Book Club Facebook Group
SNACK Club on YouTube
To Connect with FCS Extension:
UK Cooperative Extension County Offices 

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.
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
          Website
          Facebook
          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel

Episode 6: Managing Mealtime Behaviors

Hosts:
Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Anna Cason, RDN, LD, Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky 
Join SNACK Club as we return to tackle the ever-relevant topic of managing mealtime behavior with children. Using a blend of humor and heartfelt stories, Courtney and Anna dive into the contrast between Instagram-perfect meals and the chaotic reality many parents face. From children running around the table to food refusals, this episode provides a compassionate guide to handling these common mealtime challenges.
Drawing on personal anecdotes, expert advice, and practical strategies, Anna and Courtney introduce the A, B, C, D approach:
Assess the situation
Breathe
Calculate your response, and
Do it consistently
Discover how to apply these steps to create a calmer and more enjoyable mealtime environment. They also explore the concept of food waste, offering tips on how to minimize it while still introducing new foods to your child's diet.
Whether you're dealing with picky eating or just looking for ways to make family meals less stressful, this episode is packed with insights and encouragement. Tune in to learn how to transform mealtime from a battleground into a bonding experience. And don't miss the sneak peek of their next episode, where they'll discuss when it's time to seek additional help for mealtime issues.
So come for the SNACKS and stay for the SUPPORT!
To connect with Snack Club resources:
SNACK Club website
Big Blue Book Club Facebook Group
SNACK Club on YouTube
To Connect with FCS Extension:
UK Cooperative Extension County Offices 
 

Episode 5: Setting the Table for a Pleasant Mealtime

Hosts:
Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Anna Cason, RDN, LD, Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky 
Welcome to the fifth episode of SNACK Club where they dive into the art and science of creating pleasant and meaningful mealtime experiences for families. Drawing from their extensive expertise in family and child nutrition, Courtney and Anna explore the significance of mealtime rituals, the power of gratitude, and the role of sweets in a balanced diet. They also touch on how to make holidays less about food and more about meaningful connections and traditions.
Tune in to find out how to make mealtimes more enjoyable and mindful, setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy eating habits and cherished family moments.
So come for the SNACKS and stay for the SUPPORT!
To connect with Snack Club resources:
SNACK Club website
Big Blue Book Club Facebook Group
SNACK Club on YouTube
To Connect with FCS Extension:
UK Cooperative Extension County Offices 

Celebrating Farmers: Raising Hope and Farmer Appreciation Day

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, UK Cooperative Extension Service, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
Guests: Cheryl Witt, PhD Extension Specialist for Farm Safety and Health and Dale Dobson, Safety Administrator, Kentucky Department of Agriculture
Season 7, Episode 12
In this episode of Talking FACS, we focus on the invaluable contributions of farmers and the upcoming Farmer Appreciation Day, to be held on September 18th in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Our guests, Dr. Cheryl Witt, Extension Specialist for Farm Health and Safety, and Dale Dobson, Safety Administrator for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, join us to discuss the significance of this event. They share insights into the "Raising Hope" initiative, a program aimed at promoting farmer suicide prevention, stress management, farm safety, and health.
The episode highlights the interconnectedness of physical and mental health in farming communities and the importance of recognizing and supporting our farmers. Learn about the big awards to be given, including the Farmer of the Year and Friends of Raising Hope, and hear inspiring stories of dedication and service within the farming community.
Additionally, discover the various activities planned for the day, including safety demonstrations, rescue operations, and an agricultural career fair aimed at providing FFA students with insights into diverse career opportunities in agriculture.
Join us in celebrating our farmers, understanding their challenges, and appreciating their contributions to our daily lives. For more details, tune in to this enlightening episode and come out on September 18 for Farmer Appreciation Day!
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below:
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
          Website
          Facebook
          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel

Episode 4: Setting the Table for a "Successful" Mealtime through Structure and Boundaries

Hosts:
Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Anna Cason, RDN, LD, Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky 
 
Join hosts Dr. Courtney Luecking and Anna Cason, as they continue the SNACK Club adventure of feeding children, presented in partnership with the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service. Our journey has brought us to the topic of Setting the Table for a "Successful" Mealtime through Structure and Boundaries.
Discover practical, science-based strategies to set the table for a nourishing feeding environment. From planning balanced meals and snacks to establishing consistent eating routines, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
Learn how to:
say "no" mindfully
create a distraction-free eating space
enjoy the social and emotional benefits of family meals
Whether you are a parent or caregiver, tune in to explore how small changes can lead to big improvements in your child's eating habits and overall well-being. Ready to transform your mealtime chaos into mindful moments of connection? This episode is your guide.
So come for the SNACKS and stay for the SUPPORT!
To connect with Snack Club resources:
SNACK Club website
Big Blue Book Club Facebook Group
SNACK Club on YouTube
To Connect with FCS Extension:
UK Cooperative Extension County Offices 

Understanding Palliative and Supportive Care

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, UK Cooperative Extension Service, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
Guest: Katrina Nickles, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Palliative Care and Support, UK Markey Cancer Center
Cancer Conversations Show 58
Welcome to another enlightening episode of Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS where Dr. Nichols breaks down the multifaceted nature of palliative care, explaining its role as both an approach and a medical sub-specialty aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses, particularly cancer. She outlines the comprehensive, team-based approach required for effective palliative care, emphasizing the collaboration among various healthcare professionals including pharmacists, nurses, social workers, and chaplains.
The conversation also delves into the differences between palliative care and hospice care, the types of support patients and their caregivers can expect, and the importance of mental and spiritual health in the treatment process.
For more palliative care resources, visit the links below:
For clinicians:
Center to Advance Palliative Care
For patients and caregivers:
Get Palliative Care
Connect with the UK Markey Center
Online Markey Cancer Center
On Facebook @UKMarkey
On Twitter @UKMarkey
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below:
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
          Website
          Facebook
          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel
 

Episode 3: The Five Ws of Feeding Children

Hosts:
Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Anna Cason, RDN, LD, Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky
 
In another engaging episode of SNACK Club, we dive into the intricate dance of mealtime roles and responsibilities between caregivers and children. This episode is all about creating a mindful and nourishing feeding environment by understanding the division of responsibility. 
Our experts share their insights and experiences to help caregivers navigate the often-challenging world of feeding children. They explore the concept of the "five Ws" – who, what, when, where, and whether – and discuss how these elements play a crucial role in establishing a harmonious mealtime routine. 
Participants will learn about the importance of trust in the feeding relationship, the subtle yet powerful differences between pressuring and encouraging, and how to recognize and respect a child's hunger and fullness cues. Through compelling storytelling and practical examples, this episode offers valuable strategies for fostering a positive eating environment that allows children to thrive. 
Join us for an insightful conversation that promises to change the way you approach mealtime with your little ones. Leave with a deeper understanding of how to raise a mindful eater. 
So come for the SNACKS and stay for the SUPPORT!
To connect with Snack Club resources:
SNACK Club website
Big Blue Book Club Facebook Group
SNACK Club on YouTube
To Connect with FCS Extension:
UK Cooperative Extension County Offices 
 

Celebrating 90 Years of NEAFCS: Building Leaders and Recognizing Excellence

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guests: Jennifer Bridge, MAEd NEAFCS President-Elect and UK Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences in Meade County and Christy Stearns, MS KEAFCS President and UK Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences in Clinton County
Season 7, Episode 11
Today, we celebrate the 90th anniversary of the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (NEAFCS). Mindy is joined by Jennifer Bridge, NEAFCS President-Elect, and Christy Stearns, Kentucky Affiliate President.
The discussion focuses on NEAFCS's five key tenets
leadership development
professional growth
recognizing and promoting excellence
serving as a nationwide resource for education, information, networking and partnership building
Promoting the FCS profession and the mission and goals of the Land Grant Extension System
Christy and Jennifer share insights on how these principles are implemented at local, state, and national levels, highlighting programs like the Leadership Experience and various ambassador initiatives. They also discuss the importance of partnerships with organizations such as 4-H, FCCLA, and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. As well as highlighting national and state partnerships that have advanced the research knowledge base that is the foundation of the work we do.
Join us for an inspiring conversation on how NEAFCS continues to empower professionals and improve the quality of life for families and communities locally and nationwide.
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
 

Episode 2: Reframing How We Talk About Food

Hosts:
Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Anna Cason, RDN, LD, Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky
 
Welcome back for another engaging episode of SNACK Club, where our nutrition experts delve into the intricate world of child nutrition.
Join our hosts as they share science-based, practical strategies for creating a nourishing and positive feeding environment. Discover how to reframe your conversations about food, turning potentially stressful meal times into opportunities for growth and joy. From the influence of media and grocery store adventures to the subtle yet powerful impact of our body language and words, this episode covers it all.
Listen in as we explore the concept of food culture, discuss the importance of fostering a healthy relationship with food, and provide actionable tips for encouraging mindful eating habits in children. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply interested in nutrition, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you support nourished, active children.
Embark on this journey towards raising mindful eaters and transforming the way we talk about food.
So come for the SNACKS and stay for the SUPPORT!
To connect with Snack Club resources:
SNACK Club website
Big Blue Book Club Facebook Group
SNACK Club on YouTube
To Connect with FCS Extension:
UK Cooperative Extension County Offices 

Episode 1: An Age Old Dilemma: What to Feed Children

 
Hosts:
Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Anna Cason, RDN, LD, Extension Associate for Food and Nutrition
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky
 
Welcome to the inaugural episode of Big Blue Book Club presents SNACK Club, where hosts Courtney Luecking and Anna Cason delve into the essentials of raising healthy, happy eaters. Inspired by the insightful books Raising a Healthy, Happy Eater and How to Raise a Mindful Eater, they discuss the often-overlooked aspect of children's nutrition: what to feed them.
Join the conversation as they break down the USDA's MyPlate guidelines, offering practical tips on incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins into children's diets. They tackle common challenges and share small, impactful swaps to improve diet quality, all while keeping the focus on developing a holistic, nourishing eating pattern.
Discover valuable resources and strategies to overcome barriers to healthy eating, ensuring that every child has the support they need to thrive. Don't miss this engaging discussion packed with actionable advice and heartwarming anecdotes.
So come for the SNACKS and stay for the SUPPORT!
To connect with Snack Club resources:
SNACK Club website
Big Blue Book Club Facebook Group
SNACK Club on YouTube
For other resources mentioned in this episode, visit:
MyPlate.gov 
PlatEatMove.com
To Connect with FCS Extension:
UK Cooperative Extension County Offices 
 
 

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