The Extension Connection

In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast , Jessica Jackson kicks off the new year by sharing important 4-H updates, including enrollment reminders, goal setting for youth, and exciting programs coming to the Polk County Extension Office. The episode also highlights the vital role volunteers play in the success of 4-H and walks listeners through what it takes to build a strong, welcoming...

Do you have a New Year’s resolution to exercise more? Start here with this podcast, where we talk about the benefits of exercise, how much you should be getting, and practical examples to help you incorporate more movement into your day. Sources: https://richmond.ces.ncsu.edu/2021/10/the-benefits-of-aging-actively/ https://odphp.health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2...

Join Jessica Jackson on this festive year-end episode of The Extension Connection Podcast as she reflects on a year filled with growth, gratitude, and unforgettable 4-H moments. Jessica shares heartfelt stories from classes, competitions, and small-town celebrations while offering gentle advice for entering the new year with intention not pressure. With encouragement for parents, pride in every 4-...

Come along as we explore the research on how stress affects our bodies and learn practical coping strategies to help calm stress in our everyday lives. Sources:  https://www.montana.edu/extension/wellness/stress-management/mt_farm_stress_clearing_house/manage_your_stress.html https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/what-happens-in-the-body-during-stress/   https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy...

In this heartwarming holiday episode of The Extension Connection , Jessica Jackson reflects on the beauty of slowing down during the busy season and appreciating life’s simple gifts from family traditions to small acts of kindness. Join her as she shares personal stories of motherhood, 4-H service projects, and the joy of giving back. A reminder that the true spirit of 4-H — learning, serving, and...

In this episode, we’re diving into food safety—why it matters and the simple steps to remember when cooking for holiday gatherings. Resources:  NC Cooperative Extension Food Safety Website: https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/ Basic Holiday Food Safety: https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/basic_holiday_2021-1.pdf-1.pdf?fwd=no Turkey Thawing:    Refrigerator Thawing General Guide...

Welcome back to Extension Connection ! In this special episode, co-host Jessica Jackson takes a heartfelt look at the lasting impact of 4-H in celebration of National 4-H Week . From flipping through old Polk County archives to sharing touching stories from local events, Jessica reflects on how 4-H has grown through nearly a century of service, learning, and connection. Tune in to hear how Science...

In this podcast episode, we dive into the world of added sugar—why it’s important to limit it, how it affects our bodies, and practical ways to cut back for better health. Resources:  https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/nutrition-food-safety-health/sugar-and-sweeteners-9-301/ https://guilford.ces.ncsu.edu/2022/10/think-you-know-sugar/ https://extension.umaine.edu/food-health/2024/12/19/nav...

In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast, Jessica Jackson, 4-H Agent at the Polk County Center, takes you on a journey into ‘Living the Clover: How the 4-H Pledge Shapes Tomorrow’s Leaders.’ From head to heart, hands to health, we’ll uncover how this simple pledge inspires youth to grow, give back, and thrive—not just in 4-H, but in their communities and beyond.

In this episode of our fermentation series, we dive into our third topic: sourdough. Discover the rich history, nutritional benefits, and step-by-step process of creating and maintaining a healthy sourdough starter. Resources:  Sourdough 101 : https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/2024-11/sourdough_101_final.pdf Homegrown: https://homegrown.extension.ncsu.edu/2020/04/23/sourdough-brea...

In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast , Jessica Jackson—4-H Agent at the Polk County Center—shares how to build your ultimate 4-H Game Plan for the year ahead. From setting S.M.A.R.T. goals to using Project Record Books, you’ll learn practical ways to track progress, stay motivated, and make the most of every club opportunity. Jessica also dives into local 4-H history, shares her own...

This is the second episode in our fermentation series, and it features kombucha! What is it? How do you make it? Is it really good for you? Listen along as we explore this fun, bubbly topic! Resources:  https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Kombucha-Colorado-State.pdf?fwd=no https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/kombucha- faqshttps://www.canr.msu.edu/news/kombucha_tea_origin_ingredient...

In this episode of The Extension Connection Podcast , we’re diving into the barn boots-first to explore how 4-H livestock projects build more than just blue ribbon animals—they build character . From learning how to bounce back after setbacks to developing discipline, commitment, and real-world soft skills, our 4-H’ers are gaining life lessons that go far beyond the show ring. Whether it’s a steer...

In this new podcast series, we’re diving into the world of fermentation—starting with our first topic: sauerkraut. Tune in as we explore its history, nutritional benefits, and how you can make it at home. Resources:  https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/fermentation-and-pickling/#:~:text=Fermentation%20is%20practiced%20at%20home,safely%20fermenting%20foods%20at%20home. https://nchfp.uga.edu/how/ferment...

In this episode, we dig into how 4-H, internships, and extracurricular experiences help young people grow strong roots—and turn those into real-world skills for the future. From public speaking and club leadership to pepper-picking and summer internships, discover how these hands-on opportunities help shape résumés, build confidence, and plant the seeds for lifelong success. Whether your child dre...

This episode covers tips and tricks for saving money on your food budget while traveling. Resource:  Morefood.org 

Baby goats, big goals, and bold new programs—this episode of The Extension Connection is packed with heart! Join host Jessica Jackson as she kicks things off in the barn with Polk County’s newest STEM-in-action project: goat ultrasounds and hands-on learning with our 4-H herd. Then, get the scoop on summer camps, leadership through livestock, public speaking, and a cooking team headed to state! Pl...