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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Are You Skipping Annual Wellness Exams?
08/10/2026
Are You Skipping Annual Wellness Exams?
According to the National Institutes of Health, even if you feel fine, it’s important to see your health provider for regular checkups because annual wellness exams can help you avoid problems in the future. For example, the only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to have it checked regularly, and regular blood tests can check for high blood sugar and high cholesterol which may not have any symptoms in the early stages. The Kanas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health, Elaine Johannes, says we should stop making excuses for skipping our annual wellness exam and start making it a priority. 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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Back-to-School Planning and Budgeting
08/03/2026
Back-to-School Planning and Budgeting
According to the annual survey by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics, consumers are getting an early start on back-to-school shopping, with 62% of shoppers having already started shopping for the school year by early July. In looking at this year’s survey results, Kansas State University professor and Extension family resource management specialist, Elizabeth Kiss (kish), says many consumers are delaying purchases until later in the school season or spreading out their shopping to better manage their budgets. 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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K-State Extension Helps Combat Food Insecurity
07/27/2026
K-State Extension Helps Combat Food Insecurity
Kansas State University Extension is piecing together a statewide network of programs to strengthen local food systems, while ensuring Kansans have access to healthy food now and in the future. K-State Extension focuses its statewide outreach on five primary challenge areas: global food systems, water and natural resources, health, community vitality, and developing tomorrow's leaders. For the July K-State Garden Hour, Johnson County Extension Horticulture Small Farms agent, Anthony Reardon, discussed how Extension is working to support local food systems through those five primary challenge areas. 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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Heat-Related Problems for Older Adults
07/20/2026
Heat-Related Problems for Older Adults
As the summer heat continues, it’s important to remember that we all need to stay cool and hydrated. However, this is especially true for people aged 65 years or older. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults are more prone to heat-related health problems. K-State Extension adult development and aging specialist, Erin Martinez, says older adults don’t adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in temperatures and they are more likely to take prescription medicines that can affect the body’s ability to control its temperature or sweat. 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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K-State Research Focuses on How To Reduce Sedentary Habits
07/13/2026
K-State Research Focuses on How To Reduce Sedentary Habits
An associate professor in Kansas State University’s School of Health Sciences directs a lab that focuses on teaching individual behavior change strategies and developing support systems to enhance adoption and maintenance of physical activity. Dr. Emily Mailey, the Director of K-State’s Physical Activity Intervention Research Lab, discusses their research into reducing sitting and being sedentary, motivation and identifying barriers to physical activity, messaging and promotion of physical activity, and the connection between physical activity and mental health. 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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Survey Shows Hopeful Signs for Kansas Youth
07/06/2026
Survey Shows Hopeful Signs for Kansas Youth
The 2026 student survey results from Kansas Communities That Care shows positive trends continue in terms of mental health and substance use, while bullying at school or cyberbullying remain consistent or slightly below 2025. Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University, Elaine Johannes, says more than 26,000 students in 6th, 8th, 10th and 12th grade in 153 public and private school districts in Kansas participated in the assessment. According to Johannes, the survey provides a snapshot of youth attitudes, perception of risk, and behaviors regarding alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, bullying, school safety, depression and thoughts of suicide. 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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What is New World Screwworm?
06/29/2026
What is New World Screwworm?
The New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite that did hundreds of millions of dollars of damage across Texas in in the 1960s and ’70s, had been considered eradicated from the U.S. for decades. However, it has returned and poses a serious threat to cattle, wildlife and pets. Because it could move into Kansas, plans have been developed to control its spread. Kansas State University veterinary entomologist, Dr. Cassandra Olds, and Assistant Animal Health Commissioner for the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Dr. Sara McReynolds, participated in a webinar to discuss the history of the New World screwworm and the state’s response to this latest outbreak.
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Understanding the Estate Planning Process
06/22/2026
Understanding the Estate Planning Process
Estate planning is defined as the process of arranging your affairs to meet your objectives regarding the use, conservation, and disposal of your property. However, a K-State Research and Extension family resource management and wellness agent says it’s also a gift that you can give your family. Renae Riedy (reed-ee) has developed publications to make the estate planning process easier to understand and set up. She discusses the keys to estate planning and what she learned working on the publications. 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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Effects of Prolonged Extreme Health
06/15/2026
Effects of Prolonged Extreme Health
The American Psychological Association has done quite a bit of research on what extreme heat does to us and how we respond to extreme heat. Elaine Johannes, the Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University, says the findings show that extreme heat puts mental health at risk. She says prolonged extreme heat can have a cumulative effect – anxiety, less sleep and less balance in our diet and daily routines, which can then lead to becoming aggressive or argumentative. 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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Healthy Summer Nutrition Tips for Children
06/08/2026
Healthy Summer Nutrition Tips for Children
While summer break often provides a more relaxed schedule for children, maintaining structure around meals and hydration is one of the most important ways families can support healthy habits during the warmer months. K-State Extension nutrition and wellness educator, Priscilla Brenes, says children benefit from continuing a regular eating schedule and that successful summer nutrition involves a few simple principles: maintaining structure, encouraging hydration, choosing nutritious foods and involving children in the process. 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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Food Labels Provide Consumers Useful Information
06/01/2026
Food Labels Provide Consumers Useful Information
Food labels provide consumers with useful information about ingredients, nutritional value, and allergens. Additionally, they help buyers compare products and allow manufacturers to substantiate health claims. However, Kansas State University food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, says that fully understanding food labels isn’t easy. She has revised a K-State Extension publication that breaks down FDA and USDA food labeling requirements and helps consumers and producers better understand nutrition facts, ingredient lists, product dating, and label claims. 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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Activities to Keep Kids Engaged this Summer
05/25/2026
Activities to Keep Kids Engaged this Summer
When boredom sets in this summer -- and it always does -- and children begin getting restless, it’s time to find something new to keep them engaged. K-State Extension has a series of publications, Suddenly in Charge, that family and consumer sciences agents created as a resource to help parents and caregivers. That series includes 11 publications. Tristen Cope, family and consumer sciences agent for the Chisholm Trail District, discusses the publications and some activities to keep kids engaged this summer, including backyard camping, DIY sidewalk chalk and making healthy summertime drinks and snacks.
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Turn Kindness Into a Daily Habit
05/18/2026
Turn Kindness Into a Daily Habit
Whether it is intentional or random, a growing body of research indicates that kindness is a critical component of our overall health and well-being. As part of the 2026 Walk Kansas webinar series, Elaine Johannes, Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University, discussed the importance of kindness in the community and the workplace. 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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Factors That Influence Our Gut Health
05/11/2026
Factors That Influence Our Gut Health
The connection between our brain and gut is stronger than most people think. In fact, it’s so strong it’s often called the “brain-gut axis” that helps link our digestive system with our brain through nerves, hormones and chemical signals. Kansas State University Extension nutrition agent for Johnson County, Chelsea King, recently presented a Walk Kansas webinar on good gut health. She says that what we eat plays a key role in gut health and that she likes to refer to the gut microbiome as the bed and breakfast for the bacteria that live within us. King discusses the many factors that influence gut health. 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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Use Screen Time to Engage with Children
05/04/2026
Use Screen Time to Engage with Children
TV, smartphones and tablets have become part of our culture. However, we shouldn’t be spending every waking minute staring at a screen. Research shows both adults and children benefit from limiting their screen time to a few hours a day outside of work and school. K-State Extension child development specialist, Bradford Wiles, says screens aren’t the problem…they’re just a tool. He says the problem occurs when screens are being used to isolate a child rather than engage with the child. 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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How Stress Can Affect Your Health
04/27/2026
How Stress Can Affect Your Health
April is stress awareness month. It serves as a reminder to pause, reflect, and take proactive steps to protect our health and well-being. K-State Extension Johnson County family and community wellness agent, Joy Miller, says regardless of age, background, or lifestyle, stress affects everyone. When it becomes persistent, it can contribute to serious health concerns. According to Miller, recognizing the early signs of stress, no matter how it presents itself, is key to preventing long-term consequences. 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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Benefits of Preparing Healthy Meals at Home
04/20/2026
Benefits of Preparing Healthy Meals at Home
Today’s fast-paced world can make finding time to prepare and sit down to home-cooked meals a challenge. However, cooking at home has many benefits. It promotes better nutrition, saves money and strengthens family bonds. With a little planning, practice and strategy, Christina Holmes, Extension family and consumer sciences specialist for K-State’s Southeast Region, and Cloe Mills, a K-State Extension intern and master’s student in dietetics, say preparing healthy meals at home can become both manageable and enjoyable. 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 Hospice Care
04/13/2026
Understanding Hospice Care
After receiving a lot of questions about hospice care, K-State Extension developed a four-page Fact Sheet, Understanding Hospice. K-State Extension specialist in adult development and aging, Erin Martinez, is one of the co-authors. She says it helps answer the questions people have about how hospice care works, including how to qualify for end-of-life care, finding a provider, common myths about hospice and how to talk to family about hospice care. 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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Health Benefits of Being in Nature
04/10/2026
Health Benefits of Being in Nature
According to Kansas State University researchers, getting outside for even a few minutes each day can provide measurable health benefits. Gina Besenyi and Emily Mailey say nature exposure – even without vigorous exercise – plays a powerful role in overall well-being. “Energize Your Workday: Movement and Nature for Focus and Vitality” was the topic for an April 1st Walk Kansas webinar. The K-State experts discussed how just being in nature and being more physically active throughout the workday can help improve our physical and mental 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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Grilling? Focus on Food Safety
03/30/2026
Grilling? Focus on Food Safety
With spring grilling season now underway in Kansas, food safety should be at the top of the list when preparing food outdoors. Kansas State University food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, discusses the importance of hand washing, keeping raw meat, poultry and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods, and using a thermometer to check the doneness of all grilled meats. 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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Five Tips to Promote Financial Success
03/23/2026
Five Tips to Promote Financial Success
We all make day-to-day decisions about money. While most decisions are small – buying coffee on the way to work, going out for lunch or hitting the vending machine for an afternoon snack – the choices we make impact our financial success. April is Financial Literacy Month and K-State Research and Extension family resource management specialist Elizabeth Kiss (kish) shares five tips to promote financial success, as well as how parents can help children understand finances by discussing the family’s short, medium and long-term goals. 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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Discovering the Power of Nutrition
03/16/2026
Discovering the Power of Nutrition
March is National Nutrition Month. Established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the campaign highlights the essential role of food in fueling daily life, preventing chronic disease, boosting immunity, and enhancing overall physical and mental health. This year’s theme is Discover the Power of Nutrition. Kansas State University Extension nutrition, food safety and health expert for Johnson County, Chelsea King, says food is powerful. 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 Educational Side of Walk Kansas
03/09/2026
The Educational Side of Walk Kansas
Kansas State University’s Walk Kansas, an eight-week health and wellness program, begins March 22nd and runs through May 16th. In addition to a physical component, the annual event features webinars, weekly newsletters and additional resources to help participants reach their individual or team goals. Walk Kansas State Leader and northeast area family and consumer sciences specialist, Sharolyn Jackson, previews this year’s webinars and how the educational component can benefit participants during – and after – Walk Kansas ends. 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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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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