Sound Living
Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to ksrenews@ksu.edu.
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Kansas Health Strengths and Concerns
03/02/2026
Kansas Health Strengths and Concerns
Kansas has moved up one spot in the latest edition of America’s Health Rankings, moving from 28th to 27th among the 50 states. The improvement may not seem impressive, but the Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University, Elaine Johannes, says the annual report offers more than a pat on the back. It provides a roadmap for how communities, policymakers and health leaders across the state can work together to improve overall health and well-being. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Are You Prepared for Severe Weather
02/23/2026
Are You Prepared for Severe Weather
Severe Weather Awareness Week in Kansas is set for March 2nd through the 6th, with a statewide tornado drill on March 4th. Spring marks the peak season for dangerous storms. Chip Redmond, a meteorologist at Kansas State University, says the annual campaign is designed to remind residents of the state’s wide range of weather hazards and the importance of being prepared. He says the most important step is having multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings in Kansas and then being able to put your safety plan into action and taking proper shelter. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Walk Kansas Adds Online Tracking System
02/16/2026
Walk Kansas Adds Online Tracking System
Kansas State University’s long-running health and wellness program, Walk Kansas, is gearing up for its 26th year. The eight-week program, offered by K-State Extension, begins March 22nd and runs through May 16th. As the program continues to evolve, a new online tracking system is being implemented this year, and additional virtual trails are being designed for future years. Walk Kansas State Leader, Sharolyn Jackson, discusses how the program helps participants meet the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans and offers tips to promote healthy eating and overall health and wellness. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Connect Through Kindness on Valentine's Day
02/09/2026
Connect Through Kindness on Valentine's Day
Valentine’s Day is much different for adults than for children. For adults, the day typically involves flowers, candy, a sentimental greeting card and maybe a romantic dinner at a favorite restaurant. For children, Kansas State University child development specialist, Bradford Wiles, says the day is more about kindness than love. He says children don’t begin to view Valentine’s Day in terms of romantic love until later in their school years. He says parents can show kindness toward their children and themselves by spending the day together doing various activities. It doesn’t matter what type of activity is done or how it turns out. He says spending time together helps build a connection and strengthens bonds. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Understanding and Managing Blood Pressure
02/02/2026
Understanding and Managing Blood Pressure
High blood pressure remains a significant health concern. Nearly half of U.S. adults – 46.7% -- have hypertension. In Kansas, the number of adults diagnosed with high blood pressure is 34.7%. This troubling health trend prompted Kansas State University and K-State Extension to develop and offer a free program to help residents better understand and manage their blood pressure. The program, Hypertension Awareness and Prevention, has turned into a multi-part community health effort. The coordinator of the program, Stephanie Gutierrez, says home monitoring plays a key role in the success of the program. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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New U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans
01/26/2026
New U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans
The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans are released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Health and Human Services every five years. The new 2025-2030 guidelines were released January 7th and focus on prioritizing “real food,” emphasizing high-quality protein, healthy fat, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, while reducing highly processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbs. Priscilla Brenes, a nutrition and wellness educator for K-State Extension, says the guidelines serve as a base for developing a healthy diet Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan. .
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Establishing Grandparent Boundaries
01/19/2026
Establishing Grandparent Boundaries
When it comes to being a grandparent, Kansas State University aging and adult development specialist, Erin Martinez, suggests trying not to take the grandparent “fun card” too far. Instead, stay within the boundaries and expectations of the parent and spend time with grandchildren in a meaningful and purposeful way. Martinez says there are some unique considerations that go along with becoming a grandparent and being aware that family relationships and dynamics are going to change is one of those. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Creating a Safe and Organized Kitchen
01/12/2026
Creating a Safe and Organized Kitchen
While cleaning the refrigerator, oven, freezer, cabinets and drawers is typically a spring project, now is actually a good time to tackle those kitchen projects. At the same time, you can take an inventory of things that might be creating clutter, are no longer being used or are now well beyond their expiration dates. K-State Extension food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, discusses how to organize, and in some cases, totally reorganize a kitchen. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Helping Children Manage Transitions and Routines
12/29/2025
Helping Children Manage Transitions and Routines
It can be challenging for young children and their providers to transition from one activity to the next. Kansas State University Extension family and youth development agent for the Chisholm Trail District, Tristen Cope, says there are strategies that childcare providers can use to help young children better manage transitions and routines. This includes providing an advanced warning, using a visual calendar and teaching them songs that signal it’s time to move from one activity to the next. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Extension's Role in Community Health
12/22/2025
Extension's Role in Community Health
Kansas State University Extension agents and specialists are helping residents manage chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes and cancer through education, coaching and community-based support. Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at K-State, Elaine Johannes, says the past year has been especially busy for Extension programming focused on community health, with hypertension, diabetes and cancer standing out because of the reach and collaboration involved with those programs. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Tips for Staying Physically Active this Winter
12/15/2025
Tips for Staying Physically Active this Winter
The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends moving more, sitting less and getting children as young as three to be active. The guidelines also stress that any amount and any type of activity improves health. As cold weather begins to settle it and days get shorter, it’s often more difficult to be physically active. According to K-State Research and Extension northeast area family and consumer sciences specialist and state coordinator of Walk Kansas, Sharolyn Jackson, that’s when we need to make a conscious decision to be physically active. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Choosing Presence Over Pixels
12/08/2025
Choosing Presence Over Pixels
Thanksgiving has come and gone, and if you happened to notice family and friends spending more time on their digital devices than connecting face-to-face, you’re probably not alone. According to researchers, this growing phenomenon is called “technoference” – which describes interruptions and disconnections in relationships caused by the excessive use of digital devices. K-State Extension family life and resource management agent for Sedgwick County, Liz Brunscheen-Cartegena, says these small interruptions, repeated day after day, can slowly weaken the bonds that make family time special. By prioritizing presence over pixels, she says we give our families something far more lasting than any digital post; we give them belonging, attention and love. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Family Get-Togethers Can Help Develop Resilience
12/05/2025
Family Get-Togethers Can Help Develop Resilience
Family gatherings sometimes take the joy out of the holidays. Elaine Johannes, the Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Health Kansas State University, says that family get-togethers often become exercises in patience, particularly when family members have differing opinions on various topics. However, at this time of the year, she says there’s reason to hope which can help us develop resilience and even resistance to future adverse events in our lives. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Aging in America: Boosting Aging Services
11/24/2025
Aging in America: Boosting Aging Services
Kansas State University aging specialist, Erin Martinez, says a national publication brought together what she calls the greatest minds in Extension and aging across the country to shine a light on the future of aging-related work in Extension. As co-editor of a special issue published by the Journal of Human Sciences and Extension titled Aging in America, Martinez, says aging experts from across the country were able to tell the story of the work being done and to think about the future of Extension when it comes to aging-related programming and services. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Manage Time, Energy and Money This Holiday Season
11/17/2025
Manage Time, Energy and Money This Holiday Season
With the gift-giving season drawing nearer, mental, physical and financial stress may be increasing – especially considering the cost of almost everything is higher than last year. Kansas State University family resource management specialist Elizabeth Kiss (kish) says focusing on what makes the holidays special for you and your family and friends, can help relieve stress and make the holidays more joyful. She says one way to approach holidays is managing our time, energy and money. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Early Literacy Promotes Brain Development
11/10/2025
Early Literacy Promotes Brain Development
The first three years of life are a critical time for brain development. We know that learning begins before birth and according to the K-State Extension fact sheet, Early Literacy: Building the Foundation for Lifelong Learning, brain growth is rapid in those first three years, and language and literacy is a piece of that puzzle. The family and consumer wellness agent in Extension’s Cottonwood District, Monique Koerner, and Central Kansas District family and consumer wellness agent, Lisa Newman, discuss the key early literacy milestones and what parents and caregivers can do to support early language development. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Boosting Cancer Screenings in Kansas
11/03/2025
Boosting Cancer Screenings in Kansas
Kansas State University Extension and the University of Kansas Cancer Center have launched a partnership aimed at increasing awareness, access and participation in cancer screenings – especially in rural and underserved areas of the state. Hope Krebill, executive director of the Masonic Cancer Alliance, the outreach network of the University of Kansas Cancer Center, says the most common cancers in Kansas are the ones that we can prevent or screen for including prostate, breast, lung, colorectal and melanoma. Karin Denes-Collar, associate director and psychosocial services director for the Masonic Cancer Alliance, says that when we find a cancer early, it’s much more likely to be treatable and survivable. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Assistive Technology Combats Exclusion, Isolation
10/27/2025
Assistive Technology Combats Exclusion, Isolation
Assistive technology can help everyone, but it’s especially beneficial for people with disabilities or older adults. Without assistive technology, Kansas State University Extension specialist in adult development and aging, Erin Martinez, says people may feel excluded and isolated, which increases the impact and risk of disease, disability, and mental well-being. Because there are thousands of assistive technology devices that can be bought or made at home and people often don’t know where to start, Martinez has developed a fact sheet that covers the basics of assistive technology. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Recognizing Common Scam Tactics
10/20/2025
Recognizing Common Scam Tactics
The second of three Living Well Wednesday fall webinars focused on scams. The series is hosted by K-State Extension family and consumer sciences agents and specialists. Ed Burr, an investigator with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office, says scams are everywhere – by phone, online, mail and even in person. He covers how to recognize common scam tactics, how to protect personal information, and the steps to take if you become a target. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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The Role of Gut Health in Diabetes
10/13/2025
The Role of Gut Health in Diabetes
A K-State Extension nutrition and wellness specialist says the gut microbiome, the trillions of bacteria and microorganisms that live in the digestive tract, plays a crucial role in diabetes development and management. K-State’s Priscilla Brenes says probiotics, prebiotics and diet can help improve gut health and reduce the risk of diabetes complications. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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4-H: Helping Youth Develop a Lifetime of Skills
10/06/2025
4-H: Helping Youth Develop a Lifetime of Skills
The new Kansas 4-H year started October 1st, providing youth an opportunity to participate in a variety of project areas. This includes animal science, communications and expressive arts, engineering and technology, family and consumer sciences, leadership and professional development, natural resources, and plant sciences. Kansas 4-H youth development program director, Sarah Maass, (moss) says 4-H is helping youth develop the skills they’re going to use throughout their life. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Getting Started with Meal Prepping
09/29/2025
Getting Started with Meal Prepping
Meal prepping is essentially planning and preparing meals, or parts of a meal, in advance of when you anticipate eating that meal or snack. Johnson County Extension, nutrition, food safety and health agent, Chelsea King, says meal prepping saves time in the kitchen, reduces food costs and food waste, and can help people eat healthier. She discusses six steps for getting started with meal planning and prepping. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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One Pill Can Kill: The Dangers of Counterfeit Pills
09/22/2025
One Pill Can Kill: The Dangers of Counterfeit Pills
The first of three Living Well Wednesday Fall webinars, hosted by K-State Extension, Family and Consumer Sciences agents and specialists from across the state, kicked off September 17th with an overview of the opioid crisis and the growing risk of fentanyl in our communities. Jenni Ebert, Community Health Educator for the Riley and Pottawatomie County Health Departments, and founder of the Jayson Ebert Foundation – named for her son who died in 2021 from a counterfeit pill, discussed youth prevention strategies, key data trends, and how to respond to an opioid overdose or fentanyl poisoning. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Consumers Have Rights and Protections
09/15/2025
Consumers Have Rights and Protections
Regardless of the price of an item or product, there’s nothing more frustrating than being a disappointed consumer. This is especially true if it’s difficult to get any kind of satisfaction from the retailer or seller. However, consumers do have rights. K-State Research and Extension family resource specialist Elizabeth Kiss (kish) says she’s on a mission to educate consumers about their rights because they often think there’s nothing they can do. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Living Well Wednesday Returns in September
09/08/2025
Living Well Wednesday Returns in September
Fentanyl and opioid awareness; recognizing, avoiding, and reporting scams; and the negative health effects of energy drinks are the topics being covered this fall when Kansas State University’s Living Well Wednesday webinar series returns. The free webinars are the third Wednesday of each month from September through November. The sessions begin at 12:10 p.m., with the virtual room opening at noon. K-State Extension northeast area family and consumer sciences specialist, Sharolyn Jackson, says the Fall series continues to focus on topics that highlight the work Extension agents are doing in communities across Kansas. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Tailgating? Avoiding a Food Safety Penalty Flag
09/01/2025
Tailgating? Avoiding a Food Safety Penalty Flag
As the NFL and college football seasons get underway, millions of fans will be spending countless hours in parking lots consuming their favorite tailgating foods. Unfortunately, fans who don’t follow the four main rules for food safety: clean, separate, cook and chill, are risking more than getting a penalty flag. Kansas State University food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, says they're putting themselves and others at risk for a foodborne illness. She explains the steps to take to have a food-safe tailgate party. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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The Ups and Down of Retirement
08/25/2025
The Ups and Down of Retirement
Kansas State University Extension adult development and aging specialist, Erin Martinez, says retirement is one of life’s most stressful events – and it’s not all tied to how much you’ve saved. Researchers have been focusing on more than just managing retirement accounts and are exploring retirees’ life experiences and they’ve found several distinct stages of retirement that many retirees face. Martinez discusses those stages and why it’s important to have a plan for your retirement years. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Intentional Kindness
08/18/2025
Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Intentional Kindness
A growing body of research indicates that intentional kindness is a critical component of physical and mental health, as well as economic well-being. A new Extension fact sheet, Kindness Matters, details how being intentionally kind, including random acts of kindness, can benefit health. Kansas State University community health specialist, Elaine Johannes, says the fact sheet aims to help communities, schools, families and workplaces understand and implement more intentional acts of kindness. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Are You Prepared for a Financial Emergency?
08/11/2025
Are You Prepared for a Financial Emergency?
A financial emergency can take many forms. It may include car damage, property damage, unemployment or family emergencies. Regardless of the emergency, if you’ve been building an emergency fund, you’ll be better prepared to cover unexpected expenses. K-State professor and Extension family resource management specialist, Elizabeth Kiss, (kish) discusses how to prepare for an emergency now, during and after an unexpected financial emergency occurs. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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Packing a Safe School Lunch
08/04/2025
Packing a Safe School Lunch
With summer winding down, parents and kids are starting to enter their back-to-school mode. In addition to purchasing the traditional items: notebooks, pens, pencils, erasers and crayons, Kansas State University food scientist and coordinator of the university’s Rapid Response Center, Karen Blakeslee, reminds parents to think about school lunch. She says purchasing an insulated lunch bag and ice packs will allow them to send a variety of healthy foods that will be safe to eat when they have their lunch break. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to . K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.
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