FCS Matters
The FCS Matters Podcast is an official look at the art and the science of living and working well in our complex world. The FCS Matters Podcast is hosted by Dr. Nina Roofe, Assistant Vice President for Family & Consumer Science at the Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service. Each episode will tackle an FCS content area that is important to the everyday life of Arkansans. Guests will include your friends, neighbors, and Extension experts on the topic to offer sound and practical advice for making informed decisions that work for you and your family.
Episodes
19 episodes
FCS Matters: Threads of Arkansas (Ep 119)
In this episode of Threads of Arkansas, we unravel the rich story of the cotton industry and its lasting impact on our state’s economy and culture. From the fields where cotton is grown to the skilled hands that transform it into garme...
FCS Matters: ArHOP: Healthy Communities, Lasting Change (Ep. 118)
This episode highlights the Arkansas High Obesity Prevention Project (ArHOP), a five-year initiative funded by the CDC’s High Obesity Program. Join us as we explore how local communities are transforming their environments through innovative po...
FCS Matters: Arkansas Roots - Cultivating Community through Agriculture and Nutrition (Ep. 117)
In this episode, we dig into Arkansas' #1 industry—agriculture. As farmers' markets and local food movements experience a vibrant resurgence, we explore how supporting local farmers not only strengthens our economy but also fosters community en...
FCS Matters: Safe and Sustainable - Tackling Foodborne Illness and Food Waste (Ep. 116)
Each year, foodborne illnesses affect an estimated 10 million Americans, leading to tens of thousands of hospitalizations and hundreds of deaths. At the same time, over one-third of all food in the U.S. is wasted, raising serious concerns for p...
FCS Matters: Myth-Busting Nutrition & Fitness - What's Fact vs. Fiction? (Ep. 115)
From fad diets and miracle supplements to viral workout trends, the world of nutrition and exercise is full of hype, misinformation, and misunderstood science. In this episode, we cut through the noise to debunk common myths that can lead consu...
FCS Matters: Resolutions that Stick - The Psychology of Habit Change (Ep. 114)
Every January, millions set goals to eat better, get fit, or lose weight—but by February, most have already fallen off track. Why is behavior change so hard, and what can we do to make healthy habits last? In this episode, we explore the scienc...
FCS Matters: EXCITE - Building Vaccine Confidence (Ep. 113)
In this episode, we spotlight the Immunity in AR Community, a program dedicated to improving vaccine confidence across Arkansas. With a focus on education and outreach, this initiative tackles misinformation, access barriers, and low immunizati...
FCS Matters: EFNEP - Empowering Families through Nutrition Education (Ep. 112)
Since 1969, the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) has been a cornerstone of community health, making it the nation’s first and longest-running nutrition education program. In this episode, we explore how EFNEP uses peer educ...
FCS Matters: Holiday Smarts: Celebrating with Heart and a Budget (Ep. 111)
The holidays are a time for joy, giving, and gathering—but they can also strain our wallets. In this episode, we share practical tips to help you celebrate the season without overspending. From budget-friendly meals and thoughtful gift ideas to...
FCS Matters: AEHC - Over a Century of Empowering Arkansas (Ep. 110)
Founded in 1912, the Arkansas Extension Homemakers’ Council (AEHC) has been enriching lives for over a century. In this episode, we explore how AEHC continues to make a lasting impact through continuing education, leadership development, and co...
FCS Matters: Grill and Chill - Safe and Savory Outdoor Cooking Tips (Ep. 109)
With nearly 70% of U.S. households owning a grill, outdoor cooking is a beloved American tradition—especially in the summer. But warmer weather also brings a spike in foodborne illnesses. In this episode, we serve up essential tips for grilling...
FCS Matters: Farm to You - Connecting Kids to the Journey of Food (Ep. 108)
In this episode, we explore Farm to You, a traveling, interactive exhibit that brings the farm-to-table journey to life for children across Arkansas. From food production to the places where we enjoy our meals, Farm to You helps kids understand...
FCS Matters: Grown Up U (Ep. 107)
Adulting isn’t easy—but Grown Up U is here to help! Since 2021, this award-winning podcast from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture has empowered young adults with real-life skills for navigating everything from f...
FCS Matters: Fitness (Ep. 106)
Physical fitness reduces the risk of death and disability. Extension Get Fit is specifically designed for our rural state and is a leading fitness initiative in Arkansas.
FCS Matters: Emergency Preparedness (Ep. 105)
Preparation is key when it comes to unpredictable weather, financial emergencies, and other situations. The Emergency Preparedness Cookbook is an electronic tool that Arkansas families can use to put together a 14-day food supply for a family o...
FCS Matters: Walk Across Arkansas (Ep. 104)
One out of four (25%) of U.S. adults and one out of three (33%) of Arkansas adults are not physically active. Walk Across Arkansas is a fun and easy way to incorporate physical activity, health benefits, and build social connections to make wal...
FCS Matters: Early Childhood Professional Development (Ep. 103)
Dr. Rebecca Simon and Mary Beth Groce dive into strategies that empower childcare providers to grow professionally, enhance their skills, and deliver exceptional care. Tune in for practical insights and inspiration to elevate your career in ear...
FCS Matters: Mental Health Awareness (Ep. 102)
Join Dr. Brittney Schrick, Laura Grutz, and Janet Perkins as they unpack the Mental Health First Aid Program—an essential resource for recognizing, understanding, and responding to mental health challenges. Discover practical tools and insights...
FCS Matters: Financial Literacy (Ep. 101)
Dr. Laura Hendrix explores the importance of financial literacy and how the Division of Agriculture equips Arkansans with tools for economic success. From hands-on programs like Get Real to estate planning, financial security initiativ...