Truth or Trend Podcast

Starting an exercise routine can feel overwhelming—What workouts should you do? How often? Do you need a gym membership or fancy equipment? In this episode, we break it all down into simple, realistic steps so you can begin with confidence. Whether you’re brand new to exercise or coming back after a long break, this episode will give you ideas and motivation to take that very first step.   Special...

Thanks for coming back to listen to Part 2! When you shop for food, you see labels like “organic” and hear about “GMO” foods. But what do those words really mean? In this two-part series, we break it down in a simple way. You’ll learn what GMO and organic actually are, how they’re made, and the facts about how they affect your health and the planet. Forget the myths — let’s get to the truth behind...

When you shop for food, you see labels like “organic” and hear about “GMO” foods. But what do those words really mean? In this two-part series, we break it down in a simple way. You’ll learn what GMO and organic actually are, how they’re made, and the facts about how they affect your health and the planet. Forget the myths — let’s get to the truth behind the labels and don't forget to tune in next...

High-protein diets are everywhere—from fitness influencers to grocery store shelves—but are they really the key to weight loss and better health? In this episode, we dive into the science behind high-protein eating to uncover what’s fact, what’s hype, and what actually works. You'll learn: What protein is and the best sources The research behind high-protein diets How much protein you really need...

From plastic containers to personal care products, the chemicals we encounter every day may be doing more than we realize—especially when it comes to our hormones. In this episode, we dive into the world of endocrine disruptors: what they are, where they’re found, and how they can interfere with your body’s natural hormonal balance. Joined by Melissa Cotton, MU Extension Nutrition and Health Speci...

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Fisher, State Poultry Extension Specialist for Lincoln University Cooperative Extension & Research, about the truth around rising egg prices and whether backyard chickens are the answer. We'll explore what's really driving costs at the grocery store, the hidden expenses of raising your own flock, and more! Submit Episode Ideas Here!   Contact Kaylie or Debbie fo...

In this episode, Kaylie and Debbie dive deep into the controversy surrounding food dyes, with a special focus on Red No. 3. What does the FDA really say about it, and should you be concerned? If you've seen the headlines and are wondering what’s fact vs. fear, this is the episode for you. We’re here to break it all down and help you make informed choices about the products on your shelves. Don’t m...

Before you throw out all your food that contains seed oils, listen to this episode! In this episode, Debbie and Kaylie share their research on what seed oils, exploring what they are and how they might affect our health. Together, we debunk myths and uncover the facts about these controversial oils. Join us as we separate science from scare tactics and the record straight on what seed oils really...

In this episode, three moms dive into the world of gentle parenting—a nurturing, respectful approach to raising children that emphasizes empathy, understanding, and connection. But what does it really mean to be a gentle parent? Is it all about being "soft", or is there more to the story? We’ll explore the key principles of gentle parenting, debunk common misconceptions, and discuss how this appro...

Did you know that around 90% of U.S. adults rely on caffeine daily? In this episode, Kaylie and Debbie dig deep into the buzz about caffeine—how it works, what it does to your body, and the truth behind this popular pick-me-up. Don’t worry, they’re not here to tell you to quit (or start) your coffee habit—they just want to spill the tea (or coffee) on what you’re really sipping on!   Submit Episod...

Join us to learn the truth about popular weight loss injections from an experienced physician who has dedicated years to researching obesity. Dr. Braddock shares her experience prescribing these medications and debunks common misconceptions surrounding weight loss injections.    More about Dr. Amy Braddock! Dr. Braddock is a practicing family physician and Associate Professor in the Department of...

Sarah Wood, RD, is back on the podcast to talk about vegetarian and vegan diets. There are a lot of assumptions about these diets and Sarah shares the truth about her personal and professional expertise on this topic!    Submit Episode Ideas Here!   Contact Kaylie for more information kayliewalker@missouri.edu     Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Have you seen or heard of ice baths and wondered if this is just a health trend or if there is good reasoning behind it? Melissa Cotton, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension wondered the same thing and did the research so you don't have to! Melissa shares all about cold immersion therapy including the health benefits and potential risks. After listening to this episode, you'll be able...

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Steve Ball, a Professor at the University of Missouri and our State Fitness Specialist for MU Extension. Steve tells me all about his experience with body composition research and shared some really interesting stories! You won't want to miss this episode!    Submit Episode Ideas Here!   Contact Kaylie for more information kayliewalker@missouri.edu     S...

Sarah Wood, State Nutrition Specialist for MU Extension, and Hannah Whitaker, Nutrition and Health Specialist, join Kaylie to discuss their partnership with the Midsouth Soybean Board to empower Missourians to add soy to their diet for some extra protein! Sarah and Hannah also debunk some common misconceptions about human consumption of soy and soybeans.     Check out the Norborne Soybean Festival...

On this episode of the Truth or Trend Podcast, Liz Harrison, a Nutrition and Health Specialist from MU Extension, discusses the benefits of physical activity, regardless of whether you exercise for 10 minutes or an hour. If you feel like your activity doesn't count because it's not a 30 or 60-minute workout, we hope to change your mind!   If you are looking for a movement challenge this summer, ch...

While this may not be a trending topic, there are many health benefits to getting involved in your community! Kaylie chats with Rachel Brown, Community Health Specialist for MU Extension about their personal experiences of getting involved in the community. Rachel sheds light on how this can impact an individual's health and well-being. If you are already involved in the community and you're feeli...

On this episode, Kaylie talks with Candace Rodman a Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension about focusing on functional fitness instead of heavy lifting as a form of exercise for the average person. They also discuss social media influences and different challenges that are trending and how to decide if it's something you should try for yourself or avoid.    Join a local Stay Strong, Sta...

On this episode of the Truth or Trend podcast, Kaylie chats with Leslie Bertsch who is the State Specialist in Home Food Preservation for the University of Missouri Extension. Leslie shares the facts behind why it is so important to know how to can and preserve food safely at home.    *Since the recording of this podcast, Leslie Bertsch has left Extension. Contact your local Extension office for y...

Trigger warning - this episode may contain sensitive content including discussion of intimate partner violence and relationship conflict During this episode, Dr. Kale Monk, Associate Professor for the University of Missouri and State Specialist for Health and Human Sciences Extension, talks about the importance of relationships and how they affect our mental and physical health.    Resources menti...

In this episode, Kaylie chats with Debbie Bennett, Nutrition and Health Education Specialist for MU Extension, about the coconut water health trend. We wanted to know if there were any health benefits to drinking coconut water versus regular water. Tune in to find out!    Fact Check: a medium banana has 422 mg of potassium and a 16.9 oz container of coconut water has 979 mg of potassium brown coco...