How To? With Health and Human Sciences

One thing that’s certain in Extension and in life is that things are always changing! In this episode, Dr. Kale Monk joins us for a conversation about the stress that many people may experience with change and uncertainty. We discuss common emotional and psychological responses to change, and Kale shares practical strategies to build and maintain resilience, manage stress, and navigate transitions with confidence.

Thinking about going up for NTT promotion? In this episode, we talk with Jessica Trussell, Human Development and Family Science Field Specialist, and Bethany Bachmann, Nutrition and Health Field Specialist, who recently navigated the promotion process successfully. They share their experiences—the challenges they faced, what helped them most, and what they would do differently knowing what they know now. Whether you're planning to go up for promotion soon or are still a few years out, this episode will give you valuable insights and practical tips to help you prepare, reduce stress, and set yourself up for success.

In this episode, sit down with Jollyn Tyryfter, Assistant Extension Professor in the MU Department of Public Health and state lead for PSE, and Janelle Azmy, MU Extension CHEO Specialist in the Urban East region. They share how their collaboration as members of the Built Environment Issue Team has strengthened their impact and how specialists in Nutrition and Health, HDFS, and CHEO can work together to drive meaningful change. We discuss how different areas of expertise complement one another in community work, what specialists can learn from each other, and how interdisciplinary teamwork within HHS can enhance our approach to improving community health and well-being.

Do you use ChatGPT in your work or do you wonder how it might be helpful? In this episode, Jason Rincker, Director of Revenue at Stronghold Data, talks to us about the growing role of generative AI. We explore how to use AI effectively, debunk common misconceptions, and discuss ethical considerations and limitations to keep in mind. Whether you're new to AI or already integrating it into your workflow, Jason shares valuable insights on how to leverage this powerful tool while staying informed and responsible.

In this episode, we hear from Jeannette Mukayisire, Human Sciences Specialist in Family Wellbeing at Iowa State Extension. Jeannette shares her experience with community-based participatory work and how it has helped her better serve underserved populations in northeast Iowa, including Native American reservation communities and Somali immigrants. She highlights the importance of building trust and authentic relationships, ensuring that community voices are heard, and incorporating their needs into the initiatives she delivers. Tune in to learn how a community-first approach can lead to more impactful and sustainable programs!

In this episode, we are joined by Ann McCauley, MU Extension CHEO Specialist and Director of the Rural Opioids Technical Assistance Project, and Leslie Fischer, International Trade Director for the Missouri Small Business Development Centers. We discuss how their collaboration has strengthened efforts their work in promoting the Recovery Friendly Workplace model. Ann and Leslie share the model’s main goals, how it benefits both individuals and businesses, and how working across departmental lines has been successful for them in their efforts.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Christopher Sneed, Associate Professor in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Tennessee and former county Extension agent and state content specialist. We discuss the importance of sharing successes and how we as Extension professionals can be more intentional about tooting our own horn. From effective reporting and writing for journal publications to applying for awards, Dr. Sneed shares practical strategies for showcasing our impact. If you've ever struggled with self-promotion or wondered how to make your work more visible, this episode is packed with insights to help you amplify your impact.

Looking to grow your professional network beyond traditional boundaries? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Elaine Johannes, the Kansas Health Foundation Distinguished Professor in Community Health for K-State Research and Extension. As a state Extension Specialist, Dr. Johannes shares insights on building cross-regional connections. Tune in to discover strategies for expanding your reach and making a greater impact in your field!