Talking FACS

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 

Guest: Dr. Gregory Monohan, MD,  Professor, Division of Hematology and Blood Marrow Transplant, UK Markey Cancer Center

Cancer Conversations Episode 62

Dive into the latest episode of Cancer Conversation on Talking FACS, where host Mindy McCulley from the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension is joined by Dr. Gregory Monohan, a professor of medicine in the Division of Hematology and Blood Marrow Transplant. In this insightful discussion, they explore groundbreaking advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of blood cancers, including leukemias, lymphomas, and multiple myeloma.

Dr. Monohan sheds light on the complexities of blood cancer classifications and the significant progress made in developing targeted therapies tailored to various subtypes. The episode highlights the pivotal role of immunotherapy, introducing CAR-T therapy, bispecific antibodies, and TIL therapy as cutting-edge approaches revolutionizing patient outcomes.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the risk factors, symptoms, and innovative treatment methods that leverage the body's immune system to combat blood cancers. Whether you are a patient, a caregiver or simply curious about the latest cancer treatments, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of blood cancer care.

Connect with the UK Markey Center

Online Markey Cancer Center

On Facebook @UKMarkey

On Twitter @UKMarkey

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  

Guest: LaToya Drake, MS Extension Specialist for Food Access, Kentucky Nutrition Education Program

Season 7, Episode 38

In this episode, host Mindy McCulley is joined by LaToya Drake, Extension Specialist for Food Access with the Kentucky Nutrition Education Program. Together, they explore vital guidance on the best practices for storing fruits and vegetables effectively to minimize food waste. Share practical tips such as the importance of refrigerating pre-cut produce, separating fruits and vegetables in storage to prevent premature ripening, and optimizing refrigerator settings to preserve perishables like berries and lettuce.

The episode delves into cleaning techniques that enhance the longevity of your produce and underscores why certain storage methods, such as avoiding commercial cleaners, are beneficial. Discover which fruits are best ripened on countertops and when to transfer them to refrigeration to extend their freshness.

Tune in to understand how you can keep your produce fresh for longer and find additional resources through your local extension offices, paving the way to reducing food waste in your home.

To connect with Nutrition Education Program resources, visit:

PlanEatMove.com

To learn more about storage recommendations, visit Plate it up! Kentucky Proud and click on the produce of your choice. Then click on one of the recipes, to try something new!

Plate it up! Kentucky Proud

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

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Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  

Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Preservation

Season 7, Episode 37

In this episode of Talking FACS, we delve into the safety concerns surrounding black plastic kitchen utensils. Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Preservation and Food Safety, explores whether these commonly used utensils are as harmless as they seem. Recent studies have unveiled the presence of flame retardants (FRs) in black utensils, derived from recycled electronics, posing potential health risks when exposed to heat.

Annhall offers invaluable tips on selecting safe kitchen tools, recommending alternatives like wood, silicone, and BPA-free materials. Listeners will gain insights into identifying food-grade products and the importance of avoiding certain plastics. The episode also covers proper care for wooden utensils and safe practices when handling raw meat. Tune in to learn how to make informed decisions for a safer kitchen experience.

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

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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

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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 7, Episode 35

Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. Courtney Luecking, Assistant Extension Professor for Maternal and Child Health, as they delve into the importance of cultivating a positive body image from a young age. In this episode, they discuss how body image influences overall well-being and share actionable tips for parents to help their children appreciate their bodies amidst societal pressures and unrealistic media portrayals.

Dr. Luecking emphasizes the role of social media, family, and friends in shaping perception and offers strategies for parents to be positive role models. The conversation touches on the challenges adolescents face and provides practical advice for fostering affirming environments that celebrate body diversity. Learn how to guide conversations away from body size and toward healthy lifestyle habits.

This episode of Talking FACS is a must-listen for parents seeking to empower their children with confidence and a healthy perception of self.

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

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Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  

Guest: Bethany Pratt, MS Extension Food Systems Specialist, Kentucky Nutrition Education Program

Season 7, Episode 34

Join us as we explore the world of vegetable gardening with Bethany Pratt, the Food System Specialist with the Nutrition Education Program. In this episode, discover how gardening can be a fun and flexible hobby that not only enhances your physical activity and eating choices but also fits any budget. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a small patio, Bethany shares tips for getting the most out of your space and time, including advice on container gardening for those with limited space or mobility.

We discuss the support resources available through the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, which offers guidance through county extension agents and online tools. Learn how to choose easy-to-grow vegetables that align with your taste and budget, and find out when to start planting in Kentucky for optimal results.

Don't miss the chance to turn your gardening efforts into a family activity, encouraging children to eat more vegetables by involving them in the process. Whether you are planting for fun, health, or both, this episode will inspire you to start your own garden and enjoy the benefits of fresh produce right from your home.

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

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Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 

Guest: Tia Borger, PhD  Assistant Professor and Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, UK College of Medicine & UK Markey Cancer Center Faculty Member

Cancer Conversations Episode 61

In this enlightening episode of Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS, we are joined by Dr. Tia Borger, a clinical psychologist and assistant professor in the UK Department of Psychiatry, as we delve into the significant benefits of quitting smoking after a cancer diagnosis.

Throughout the discussion, Dr. Borger highlights how quitting smoking can reduce early mortality risk, enhance treatment efficacy, and improve overall quality of life for cancer patients. Despite common barriers to quitting, such as stress and habitual behavior, Dr. Borger explains that various supportive resources and cessation medications are available to help individuals succeed. She also emphasizes that similar benefits apply to stopping non-cigarette tobacco products as well.

The episode also explores behavioral strategies and coping mechanisms to combat the challenges of quitting, alongside available resources like the 1-800-QUIT-NOW call line and the UK Markey Cancer Center's tobacco treatment program. Listeners will find encouragement and practical advice on how to start their journey towards a tobacco-free life, that will only enhance their cancer journey.

For more information and assistance for quitting smoking:

1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)

Smoke Free TEXT App Information

National Cancer Institute - Cigarette Smoking

Connect with the UK Markey Center

Online Markey Cancer Center

On Facebook @UKMarkey

On Twitter @UKMarkey

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  

Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development  

Season 7, Episode 33

Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. David Weisenhorn as they delve into the realities of true love stories, contrasting fairy tale notions and commercialized expectations. Explore practical, research-backed tips for building strong, lasting relationships with your true love.

Dr. Weisenhorn emphasizes the importance of open and honest communication as the cornerstone of a healthy partnership. Discover how active listening and expressing emotions can lead to a more satisfying relationship.

Learn how simple acts of service can strengthen your bond and the significance of investing in your partner's 'love bank' without expecting anything in return. They also discusses the crucial role of spending quality time together, away from daily chaos, to create lasting memories and emotional bonds.

Whether in a new relationship or married for decades, these insights and practical strategies are designed to enhance love and connection every day of the year.

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

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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

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          FCS Learning Channel

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 

Guest: Alex Elswick, PhD Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery

Season 7, Episode 31

In this episode of Talking FACS, host Mindy McCulley is joined by Dr. Alex Elswick, Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, to discuss Xylazine, a non-opioid sedative increasingly found in the drug supply. Originally used in veterinary medicine, Xylazine is not intended for human consumption but is being mixed with drugs like fentanyl without users' knowledge, complicating the ongoing opioid crisis.

Dr. Elswick explains the unexpected presence of Xylazine in the drug market and its implications, highlighting how it poses new risks to overdose situations. The conversation delves into the difficulties posed by Xylazine's sedative effects, which can mask opioid overdoses and complicate life-saving interventions such as Naloxone administration.

The episode also explores methods used to detect Xylazine presence in communities, including innovative wastewater analysis. As the discussion unfolds, listeners gain an understanding of the broader context of drug contamination and the pressing need for enhanced public awareness.

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