Looking Forward Our Way

In this episode of "Looking Forward Our Way," hosts Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson are joined by expert guest Sharon Hamersley to discuss the crucial topic of career ownership within the job market. As a local expert in job searching and skill-building, Sharon emphasizes the importance of intentional networking and skill acquisition, catering to job seekers and those seeking to advance in their...

We welcome Christine Happel, the assistant director of the Age Friendly Innovation Center , to discuss the vital services and resources available to seniors in Central Ohio. Christine elaborates on the Senior Services Roundtable, a platform that connects seniors with essential resources and services in the community. The Roundtable's effectiveness is in promoting collaboration, networking, and res...

Looking Forward Our Way 99 Ohio's Workforce Evolution and Opportunities Ahead In this episode of "Looking Forward Our Way," hosts Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson welcome Kelly Fuller, Vice President of Talent and Workforce Development at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce . This insightful conversation delves into the innovative strategies employed by businesses in Central Ohio to tap into underut...

Looking Forward Our Way 98 Signal Ohio is Bridging News Deserts and Fueling Civic Empowerment In this episode of "Looking Forward Our Way," hosts Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson welcome Rita McNeil Danish, the CEO of Signal Ohio , to discuss the transformative impact of nonprofit journalism in Ohio communities. With a focus on promoting civic engagement, fostering community involvement, and addr...

In the podcast episode "New Year Job Search Tips," Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson, along with expert guests Marilyn Bury-Rice, Sharon Hamersley, Rebecca Heslep, Jill Kulman, Darlene Ziebell, and Kelly Fuller, provide valuable insights and tips for job seekers. The episode focuses on various essential aspects of the job search process, from creating a strong resume to utilizing effective network...

Welcome to "Looking Forward Our Way," where we bring you the latest insights and expert advice on issues relevant to those 50 and older in Central Ohio and beyond. As we celebrate our 4th year of podcasting, we reflect on the past 3 years of providing over 100 episodes. With a focus on bringing valuable information and entertainment to our 50-plus Ohioans, we discuss our goal of highlighting diver...

We tackle a pressing issue that is impacting Central Ohio: the housing crisis. Joining us as our special guests are Michael Wilkos and Carlie Boos, who will shed light on the current state of affordable housing in the region and discuss potential solutions. We'll explore the allocation of funds for affordable housing, efforts to update zoning codes, and the impact of restrictive suburban communiti...

We had the pleasure of talking with Kimberly Schwind, Assistant Director & Training Programs Administrator, Ohio Traffic Safety Office for the Ohio Department of Public Safety. And Angie Wise, Ohio Statewide CarFit Coordinator for the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging, about important initiatives to support the mobility and safety of older Ohioans behind the wheel. Here are 3 key takeaways fro...

We are joined by Russ Brand and Chad Greenwald, the passionate individuals behind this unique music education program that has been making waves in the community. Throughout the episode, they discuss the core values, transformative experiences, and the continuous growth of School of Rock Columbus. Passion and fun are the driving forces behind School of Rock Columbus . Russ and Chad believe that wh...

We sit down with guest Ed Zirkle, a veteran and photographer. Ed begins by sharing that his involvement with a TED Talk on PTSD has led him to conduct extensive background research on the topic. He emphasizes that PTSD affects only a small percentage of people, particularly veterans, and is often considered an invisible wound. Ed's primary goal is to help people understand what PTSD is from both t...

What does it take to make live theater not just survive — but thrive? In this episode, we sit down with Mark Seven, Owner, Producer, and Director of Get Away With Murder — a traveling improv mystery comedy dinner theatre based in Ohio that turns every audience member into a suspect. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why live entertainment venues are struggling to fill seats — and what smart opera...

We are joined by guest Larae Schraeder, an attorney specializing in elder law and Medicaid eligibility and planning. Schraeder shares her expertise and personal experiences while discussing the intricacies of Medicaid and the importance of proper planning for long-term care. Larae emphasizes the need for strategic preparation when it comes to potential long-term care or assisted living needs. She...

Josh Kinzel from Seniority Benefits Group is back in the studio to talk about the 2024 Medicare Open Enrollment. Josh starts off by explaining that when it comes to Medicare choices, you have some flexibility. You can go with a supplement and drug plan or opt for a Medicare Advantage plan. The decision really depends on your own risk tolerance when it comes to health insurance events. If you have...

Our featured guest, Anthony Santilli from the Fangs & Fur Podcast , talks about his personal journey feeding his pet, sharing how a crisis in the pet food industry compelled him to reevaluate his career path. Witnessing the transformative impact of real, fresh, and raw food on dogs' health, he developed a passion for promoting healthier diets for our four-legged companions. We delve into the c...

We have a very special guest joining us once again - Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano. Together, we will explore the hot topic of property tax reappraisal in 2023 and its impact on homeowners across the county. As we discuss the importance of modernizing the Homestead exemption and preventing property taxes from driving long-time residents out of their neighborhoods, we will also explore...

In this episode, we have two special guests joining us, Mason Landrum and Alex West from Nice Guy Technology . We delve into the dark corners of the internet as we discuss the dark web and the importance of cybersecurity. Mason and Alex share valuable insights and tips to help us navigate this digital realm safely. From the dangers of vishing scams to the hidden depths of the deep web, we'll explo...

We welcome Chuck Gehring , President and CEO LifeCare Alliance. Throughout the episode, Chuck emphasizes the goal of keeping clients independent in their own homes and off waiting lists, emphasizing the importance of preventative measures and education. He also touches on the challenges faced by seniors living on a limited income and their struggles with rising costs, especially during the summer...

On this episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we are joined by guest Sharon Hamersley to discuss the latest updates on LinkedIn. We discuss the recent addition of the "Open to work" feature which can help job seekers indicate their availability for job opportunities. Sharon also cautions listeners about the use of AI applications for content generation on LinkedIn which could lead to privacy concern...

On this episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we examine the issue of BBB scams with guest Lee Anne Lanigan, Director of Consumer Relations & Investigations - Better Business Bureau Serving Central Ohio. You are going to hear valuable tips on how to avoid scams and warn against buying into products and services that are "too good to be true." We urge listeners to use secure payment methods like...

In the latest episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we are joined by guest David Polakowski to discuss the Harding-Buller Foundation of Worthington (OH). Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: - Harding Hospital, built in 1925, not only offered medical treatment but also focused on alternative therapies such as horticulture, music, and art therapy. - The Harding and Kellogg families were instrum...

On this episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we hear from Matthew Goldstein, the founder of Besa , a nonprofit organization that aims to reduce barriers to volunteering and connect people to opportunities to give back to their community. Matthew shares his personal journey of discovering a love for connecting with others through volunteering, and how Besa has grown to offer 50-70 volunteer projects...

Ken Lazar, CEO, of Ability Professional Network , and Frank Agin, Principal of AmSpirit Business Connections are our guests. They share their insights into the world of networking, emphasizing its importance in today's job market and business world. Listeners will learn about the critical practices for successful networking, such as adding value to others, being a good listener, and building trust...

Housing for seniors has become an urgent focus area in Central Ohio. Our guests are Frances Krumholtz , Volunteer and Engagement Coordinator · Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging, and the Nesterly liaison. And Donald Wiggins, Executive Director at Village Connections . Nesterly is an intergenerational home-sharing platform that allows two or more people who are not related to share a home together....

Listeners will gain valuable insights on how job seekers over the age of 50 can overcome ageism and find fulfilling employment. Deborah Hope, an executive career coach and founder of the Massachusetts Library Collaborative 50 Plus Job Seekers Networking Group , shares her expertise on how individuals over 50 bring valuable skills and experience to the workforce, and emphasizes the importance of fi...

We welcome back Katie White, the new director of the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging, who shares her insights into the critical work that COAAA does to serve older Americans and individuals with disabilities in Central Ohio. With a focus on case management, education, and advocacy, COAAA provides essential services to thousands of individuals. However, Katie highlights the challenges the agency...