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 Specialist, we explore the science, the real-life effects, and what you can do to reduce your exposure. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that could change the way you look at everyday products.

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

kayliewalker@missouri.edu

bennettdl@missouri.edu

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Resources:

Environmental Working Group Consumer Guide: https://www.ewg.org/consumer-guides

EPA Overview of Endocrine Disruptors: https://www.epa.gov/endocrine-disruption/overview-endocrine-disruption

For more information reach out to Melissa Cotton at cottonmr@missouri.edu

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 for more information

kayliewalker@missouri.edu

bennettdl@missouri.edu

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Resources:

https://www.facebook.com/lincolnupoultry/

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 miss it!

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

kayliewalker@missouri.edu

bennettdl@missouri.edu

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Resources:

PedsDocTalk. (2023, April 8). The Truth About Red Dye 40: Effects & Myths Explored [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zo8q9B85Y64

FDA Revoke Authorization for the Use of Red No. 3

https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-revoke-authorization-use-red-no-3-food-and-ingested-drugs#:~:text=The%20FDA%20is%20amending%20its,a%202022%20color%20additive%20petition

FDA: Color Additives Information for Consumers

https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/color-additives-information-consumers

Regulatory Status of Color Additives

https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?set=ColorAdditives

Center for Science in the Public Interest

https://www.cspinet.org/cspi-news/red-3-fda-finally-bans-cancer-causing-food-dye

Nationwide Children's

https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/700childrens/2025/01/red-dye

Arnold, L. E., Lofthouse, N., & Hurt, E. (2012). Artificial food colors and attention-deficit/hyperactivity symptoms: conclusions to dye for. Neurotherapeutics : the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics, 9(3), 599–609. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-012-0133-x

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 approach can shape your relationship with your child. Whether you’re curious about choosing gentle parenting or looking to understand it better, this episode will provide clarity, insights, and practical tips.

Gentle Parenting Resources:

The Joyful Parenting Journey with Dr. Dave Schram on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/groups/drdaveparentingmadesimple

ParentLink is an MU Entity that provides one-on-one support and parenting education

https://www.facebook.com/parentlink

Connect with Kyleigh

https://www.facebook.com/MUKyleigh

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

kayliewalker@missouri.edu

bennettdl@missouri.edu

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

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 Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie for more information

kayliewalker@missouri.edu

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

Resources from this episode:

https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8009784/how-much-caffeine-is-too-much/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/caffeine/art-20045678

https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much

https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8069479/is-coffee-good-for-you/

https://uhs.princeton.edu/health-resources/caffeine

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10930107/

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 Family and Community Medicine at the University of Missouri. She graduated from the University of Missouri School of Medicine in 2009 and Residency Program in 2012. In 2015, she completed an Academic Fellowship earning MsPH degree. Dr. Braddock researches child obesity especially new technologies for families and EHR tools for providers to address child obesity in clinic. She cares for patients in her continuity family medicine clinic, including adults and children with obesity, as well as teaches residents and medical students in the inpatient and outpatient setting.

Submit Episode Ideas Here!

Contact Kaylie for more information

kayliewalker@missouri.edu

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

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