The Extension Connection
Welcome to The Extension Connection: Polk County, the podcast where we connect you with the valuable resources and expert tips from the NC State Extension Polk County office. Whether you're a child, parent, farmer, gardener, or just curious about the many ways Extension can support you, you've come to the right place! In each episode, we'll dive into a wide range of topics, including 4-H youth development, Family and Consumer Science, Equine care, and horticulture. Whether you're looking for advice or tips caring for your horses, growing your garden, managing your family's health and wellness, or want to hear more about 4-H we’ve got you covered. Stay tuned on Wednesday's as we bring you practical insights, local resources, and the research based news on the topics that pertain to you! Let’s get connected!
Episodes
49 episodes
Growing Confidence Without Breaking the Bank
In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast, Jessica Jackson, Polk County 4-H Agent, explores the myth that 4-H has to be expensive. Through stories from Cooking Week, a fun grocery store budgeting challenge, and a surprisingly d...
Farmers Market and SNAP benefits
In this episode, we'll explore our local farmers markets and discuss how you can use your SNAP benefits at the Polk County Farmers Market to access fresh, locally grown foods.Resources: NC State Local Foods: &nb...
Generations, Strengths, and Learning Styles
In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast, Jessica Jackson explores how generational strengths and learning styles shape the way we work, teach, and connect with others. Drawing from her experiences as a 4-H agent, she shares...
Understanding Food Labeling
In this episode, we will explore the food label and learn how to interpret the information found on both the front and back of food packages. We will also define common nutrition claims such as "fat-free," "low sugar," and other labeling terms ...
Summer Is a Building Season: The Skills You Can’t Grade
This week on the Extension Connection Podcast, Jessica Jackson with 4-H is talking all about why summer is more than just time out of school—it’s a season for growth. From Safe Sitter and CPR classes to fair projects, camps, and hands-...
Home Maintenance Series Part 3- Outdoor Maintenance
Welcome back to part three of our Home Maintenance series, where we dive into outdoor home maintenance and the key things you should be inspecting once a year to keep your home in good working condition. Follow along as we walk through a top-do...
Growing Together- The Power of Community Partnerships in 4-H
In this episode of the Extension Connection Podcast, 4-H agent Jessica Jackson explores the power of community partnerships and how they help 4-H grow and thrive. From schools and local businesses to volunteers and organizations,...
Home Maintenance Part 2
In this episode, we dive back into our home maintenance series with Part 2, where we focus on indoor maintenance tasks that can be done once a year or so. Listen along as we go deeper into this topic to help keep our homes running in peak condi...
Breaking Chains: Caring for Your Health in Every Season
In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast, Jessica Jackson talks about the importance of health and wellness for youth and families. As spring brings a season of fresh beginnings, Jessica reflects on how life changes over tim...
Simple Solutions for Spring Cleaning
In this episode, we break down how to make spring cleaning easier with four simple steps. We’ll also share helpful reminders about important yearly and even quarterly home maintenance tasks you may want to prioritize.Resources: ...
Technology in the Trenches: How 4-H Prepares Youth for the Future
In this episode of the Extension Connection Podcast, we explore how 4-H prepares youth for the future by blending hands-on learning with modern technology. From STEM programs and agriculture to events like North Carolina 4-H Electric Congress, ...
Saving Money at the Grocery Store by Shopping Less
Join me as we explore smart ways to save money at the grocery store and strategies to cut down on how often you shop.Resources:
It Takes a Village- Volunteers & 4-H Clubs
In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast, Jessica Jackson kicks off the new year by sharing important 4-H updates, including enrollment reminders, goal setting for youth, and exciting programs coming to the Polk County Exten...
Your New Year Exercise Kickoff
Do you have a New Year’s resolution to exercise more? Start here with this podcast, where we talk about the benefits of exercise, how much you should be getting, and practical examples to help you incorporate more movement into your day....
Year-End Reflections & A Gentle Start to the New Year
Join Jessica Jackson on this festive year-end episode of The Extension Connection Podcast as she reflects on a year filled with growth, gratitude, and unforgettable 4-H moments. Jessica shares heartfelt stories from classes, competitio...