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 Day Camp began back in 1984, why sewing skills matter more than you think, and how one visit to a local care home sparked a powerful reminder of 4-H’s generational bond. Plus, Jessica issues a simple but meaningful challenge to keep the 4-H spirit alive in your community.

Whether you're a lifelong clover, a proud alum, or brand new to the 4-H family—this episode will remind you why in 4-H, we don’t just grow projects—we grow people.

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/navigating-nutrition-labels-understanding-carbohydrates-and-added-sugars/

https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/carbohydrates-in-the-diet.html

https://www.barber.k-state.edu/docs/foodandnutrition/Substract%20the%20Sugar.pdf

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/nutrition-food-safety-health/nutrition-news/nutrition-news-easy-steps-to-make-your-diet-anti-inflammatory/#:~:text=Lifestyle%20factors%20that%20can%20aggravate,and%20to%20your%20dessert%20menu

https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/community-health-education-prevention-inspiration/2023-07-21-reset-your-palate-lower-your

https://medinsteadofmeds.com/tips-and-tools/rethink-your-sweets/

https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2021-11/DGA_FactSheet_AddedSugars_2021-06_508c.pdf

https://www.myplate.gov/myplate-kitchen

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-bread-making/

Discard Recipes:

Sourdough Biscuits: https://pinchmysalt.com/buttery-sourdough-biscuits/#:~:text=are%20spaced%20apart.-,Notes,in%20the%20recipe%20by%20half.

Discard Crackers: https://our-family-cooks.com/everything-bagel-sourdough-discard-crackers/

Discard Pizza: https://www.farmhouseonboone.com/how-to-make-easy-sourdough-pizza-crust/

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 big personal goal for the year, and encourages families to take on a “Year Ahead Challenge” together. Whether you’re a new member, a long-time 4-H’er, or a parent looking to support your child’s growth, this episode is packed with inspiration, real-life tips, and a reminder of 4-H fall programs.