Truth or Trend Podcast

Starting an exercise routine can feel overwhelming—What workouts should you do? How often? Do you need a gym membership or fancy equipment? In this episode, we break it all down into simple, realistic steps so you can begin with confidence. Whether you’re brand new to exercise or coming back after a long break, this episode will give you ideas and motivation to take that very first step.

Special Announcement

Thank you,

Kaylie Walker & Debbie Bennett

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/adults.html

Cox C. E. (2017). Role of Physical Activity for Weight Loss and Weight Maintenance. Diabetes spectrum : a publication of the American Diabetes Association, 30(3), 157–160. https://doi.org/10.2337/ds17-0013

Thanks for coming back to listen to Part 2!

When you shop for food, you see labels like “organic” and hear about “GMO” foods. But what do those words really mean? In this two-part series, we break it down in a simple way. You’ll learn what GMO and organic actually are, how they’re made, and the facts about how they affect your health and the planet. Forget the myths — let’s get to the truth behind the labels!

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

[email protected] 

[email protected] 

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

References:

https://sph.umich.edu/pursuit/2018posts/gmos.html

https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/be

efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.fda.gov/media/135279/download

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gmo-pros-and-cons#identification

Mayo Clinic. (2025, Feb. 28). Organic foods: Are they safer? More nutritious? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880

Swearingen, T. (2025). Organic vs. Non-organic Foods. https://mnoncology.com/resources/blog/organic-vs-non-organic-foods

Zielinski, D. (2024, Aug. 19) Organic Produce: Is it Worth it? Or Even Any Better? https://www.rily.co/articles/organic-produce:-is-it-worth-it-or-even-any-better-113

When you shop for food, you see labels like “organic” and hear about “GMO” foods. But what do those words really mean? In this two-part series, we break it down in a simple way. You’ll learn what GMO and organic actually are, how they’re made, and the facts about how they affect your health and the planet. Forget the myths — let’s get to the truth behind the labels and don't forget to tune in next month to hear the rest of the story!

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

[email protected] 

[email protected] 

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

References:

https://sph.umich.edu/pursuit/2018posts/gmos.html

https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/be

efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.fda.gov/media/135279/download

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gmo-pros-and-cons#identification

Mayo Clinic. (2025, Feb. 28). Organic foods: Are they safer? More nutritious? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880

Swearingen, T. (2025). Organic vs. Non-organic Foods. https://mnoncology.com/resources/blog/organic-vs-non-organic-foods

Zielinski, D. (2024, Aug. 19) Organic Produce: Is it Worth it? Or Even Any Better? https://www.rily.co/articles/organic-produce:-is-it-worth-it-or-even-any-better-113

Transcript

High-protein diets are everywhere—from fitness influencers to grocery store shelves—but are they really the key to weight loss and better health? In this episode, we dive into the science behind high-protein eating to uncover what’s fact, what’s hype, and what actually works.

You'll learn:

What protein is and the best sources

The research behind high-protein diets

How much protein you really need based on your goals

Practical tips for adding more quality protein to your diet

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

[email protected] 

[email protected] 

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

References:

Forrest, S. (2024). Weight-loss success depends on eating more protein, fiber while limiting calories, study finds. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. https://medicine.illinois.edu/news/weight-loss-success-depends-on-eating-more-protein-fiber-while-limiting-calories-study-finds 

Giorgi, A. (2025, Apr. 18). Should You Get Your Protein from Whole Foods or Supplements? https://www.verywellhealth.com/protein-supplements-vs-food-11717777

Loyacono, S. (2025). Protein may help boost weight loss and improve overall health. University of Kansas Medical Center. https://www.kumc.edu/about/news/news-archive/protein-benefits.html#:~:text=Eating%20a%20variety%20of%20proteins,variety%20of%20nuts%20and%20beans. 

Moon, J., & Koh, G. (2020). Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss. Journal of obesity & metabolic syndrome, 29(3), 166–173. https://doi.org/10.7570/jomes20028 

Phoenix, K. (2025, May 29). How Much Protein Do You Really Need? Experts Reveal the Surprising Amount. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/a64853473/how-much-protein-do-we-need/

Restivo, J. (2023, Dec. 1). High-protein foods: The best protein sources to include in a healthy diet. https://www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/high-protein-foods-the-best-protein-sources-to-include-in-a-healthy-diet

United States Department of Agriculture MyPlate. (2025). Protein Foods. https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/protein-foods

Transcript

From plastic containers to personal care products, the chemicals we encounter every day may be doing more than we realize—especially when it comes to our hormones. In this episode, we dive into the world of endocrine disruptors: what they are, where they’re found, and how they can interfere with your body’s natural hormonal balance. Joined by Melissa Cotton, MU Extension Nutrition and Health Specialist, we explore the science, the real-life effects, and what you can do to reduce your exposure. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that could change the way you look at everyday products.

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

[email protected] 

[email protected] 

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Resources:

Environmental Working Group Consumer Guide: https://www.ewg.org/consumer-guides

EPA Overview of Endocrine Disruptors: https://www.epa.gov/endocrine-disruption/overview-endocrine-disruption 

For more information reach out to Melissa Cotton at [email protected] 

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Fisher, State Poultry Extension Specialist for Lincoln University Cooperative Extension & Research, about the truth around rising egg prices and whether backyard chickens are the answer. We'll explore what's really driving costs at the grocery store, the hidden expenses of raising your own flock, and more!

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

[email protected] 

[email protected] 

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Resources:

https://www.facebook.com/lincolnupoultry/ 

In this episode, Kaylie and Debbie dive deep into the controversy surrounding food dyes, with a special focus on Red No. 3. What does the FDA really say about it, and should you be concerned? If you've seen the headlines and are wondering what’s fact vs. fear, this is the episode for you. We’re here to break it all down and help you make informed choices about the products on your shelves. Don’t miss it!

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

[email protected] 

[email protected] 

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Resources:

PedsDocTalk. (2023, April 8). The Truth About Red Dye 40: Effects & Myths Explored [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zo8q9B85Y64

FDA Revoke Authorization for the Use of Red No. 3

https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-revoke-authorization-use-red-no-3-food-and-ingested-drugs#:~:text=The%20FDA%20is%20amending%20its,a%202022%20color%20additive%20petition

FDA: Color Additives Information for Consumers

https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/color-additives-information-consumers

Regulatory Status of Color Additives

https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?set=ColorAdditives

Center for Science in the Public Interest

https://www.cspinet.org/cspi-news/red-3-fda-finally-bans-cancer-causing-food-dye

Nationwide Children's

https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/700childrens/2025/01/red-dye

Arnold, L. E., Lofthouse, N., & Hurt, E. (2012). Artificial food colors and attention-deficit/hyperactivity symptoms: conclusions to dye for. Neurotherapeutics : the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics, 9(3), 599–609. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-012-0133-x 

Before you throw out all your food that contains seed oils, listen to this episode!

In this episode, Debbie and Kaylie share their research on what seed oils, exploring what they are and how they might affect our health. Together, we debunk myths and uncover the facts about these controversial oils. Join us as we separate science from scare tactics and the record straight on what seed oils really mean for your health and lifestyle. 

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Resources

REP Provisions. (2025). 7 Reasons Seed Oils are Bad for Your Health. https://repprovisions.com/blogs/rep-provisions-blog/7-reasons-seed-oils-are-bad-for-your-health

Williamson, L. (2024, August 20). There’s no reason to avoid seed oils and plenty of reasons to eat them. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2024/08/20/theres-no-reason-to-avoid-seed-oils-and-plenty-of-reasons-to-eat-them

Baptist Health. (2023, February 21). Are Seed Oils Bad For You? https://www.baptisthealth.com/blog/recipes/are-seed-oils-bad-for-you

Gregory, S.Y. (2024, July 9). The pros and cons of seed oils, and how to incorporate them in your diet. https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/nutrition-fitness/the-pros-and-cons-of-seed-oils-and-how-to-incorporate-them-in-your-diet/

Massachusetts General Hospital. (2024, Oct. 16). Seed Oils: Facts & Myths. https://www.massgeneral.org/news/article/seed-oils-facts-myths

Cleveland Clinic. (2023, October 4). Seed Oils: Are They Actually Toxic? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/seed-oils-are-they-actually-toxic

PennState Extension: Processing Edible Oils https://extension.psu.edu/processing-edible-oils 

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

[email protected] 

[email protected] 

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

In this episode, three moms dive into the world of gentle parenting—a nurturing, respectful approach to raising children that emphasizes empathy, understanding, and connection. But what does it really mean to be a gentle parent? Is it all about being "soft", or is there more to the story? We’ll explore the key principles of gentle parenting, debunk common misconceptions, and discuss how this approach can shape your relationship with your child. Whether you’re curious about choosing gentle parenting or looking to understand it better, this episode will provide clarity, insights, and practical tips.

Gentle Parenting Resources:

The Joyful Parenting Journey with Dr. Dave Schram on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/groups/drdaveparentingmadesimple

ParentLink is an MU Entity that provides one-on-one support and parenting education

https://www.facebook.com/parentlink

Connect with Kyleigh

https://www.facebook.com/MUKyleigh 

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

[email protected] 

[email protected] 

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Did you know that around 90% of U.S. adults rely on caffeine daily?

In this episode, Kaylie and Debbie dig deep into the buzz about caffeine—how it works, what it does to your body, and the truth behind this popular pick-me-up. Don’t worry, they’re not here to tell you to quit (or start) your coffee habit—they just want to spill the tea (or coffee) on what you’re really sipping on!

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie for more information

[email protected] 

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Resources from this episode: 

https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8009784/how-much-caffeine-is-too-much/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/caffeine/art-20045678

https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much

https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8069479/is-coffee-good-for-you/

https://uhs.princeton.edu/health-resources/caffeine

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10930107/