The Extension Connection

In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast, Jessica Jackson, 4-H Agent at the Polk County Center, takes you on a journey into ‘Living the Clover: How the 4-H Pledge Shapes Tomorrow’s Leaders.’ From head to heart, hands to health, we’ll uncover how this simple pledge inspires youth to grow, give back, and thrive—not just in 4-H, but in their communities and beyond.

In this episode of our fermentation series, we dive into our third topic: sourdough. Discover the rich history, nutritional benefits, and step-by-step process of creating and maintaining a healthy sourdough starter.

Resources: 

Sourdough 101 : https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/2024-11/sourdough_101_final.pdf

Homegrown: https://homegrown.extension.ncsu.edu/2020/04/23/sourdough-bread-making/

Discard Recipes: 

Sourdough Biscuits: https://pinchmysalt.com/buttery-sourdough-biscuits/#:~:text=are%20spaced%20apart.-,Notes,in%20the%20recipe%20by%20half.

Discard Crackers: https://our-family-cooks.com/everything-bagel-sourdough-discard-crackers/

Discard Pizza: https://www.farmhouseonboone.com/how-to-make-easy-sourdough-pizza-crust/

In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast, Jessica Jackson—4-H Agent at the Polk County Center—shares how to build your ultimate 4-H Game Plan for the year ahead. From setting S.M.A.R.T. goals to using Project Record Books, you’ll learn practical ways to track progress, stay motivated, and make the most of every club opportunity. Jessica also dives into local 4-H history, shares her own big personal goal for the year, and encourages families to take on a “Year Ahead Challenge” together. Whether you’re a new member, a long-time 4-H’er, or a parent looking to support your child’s growth, this episode is packed with inspiration, real-life tips, and a reminder of 4-H fall programs. 

This is the second episode in our fermentation series, and it features kombucha! What is it? How do you make it? Is it really good for you? Listen along as we explore this fun, bubbly topic!

Resources: 

https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Kombucha-Colorado-State.pdf?fwd=no

https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/kombucha-

faqshttps://www.canr.msu.edu/news/kombucha_tea_origin_ingredients_and_precautions

In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast, we’re diving into the barn boots-first to explore how 4-H livestock projects build more than just blue ribbon animals—they build character. From learning how to bounce back after setbacks to developing discipline, commitment, and real-world soft skills, our 4-H’ers are gaining life lessons that go far beyond the show ring. Whether it’s a steer, a pig, a rabbit, or a goat, these projects teach youth the values of resilience, responsibility, and leadership—one feeding, one halter, and one show day at a time.

Tune in and discover how the barn becomes the classroom, and how livestock helps raise not just animals—but future leaders.

In this new podcast series, we’re diving into the world of fermentation—starting with our first topic: sauerkraut. Tune in as we explore its history, nutritional benefits, and how you can make it at home.

Resources: 

https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/fermentation-and-pickling/#:~:text=Fermentation%20is%20practiced%20at%20home,safely%20fermenting%20foods%20at%20home.

https://nchfp.uga.edu/how/ferment/recipes/sauerkraut/

https://foodsmartcolorado.colostate.edu/food-safety/safe-preparation-handling-and-storage/understanding-and-making-sauerkraut-2/