Looking Forward Our Way

Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
Looking Forward Our Way

The Looking Forward Our Way podcast addresses today’s critical issues that impact the lives, and livelihood, of those traveling their own way. The podcsat is co-hosted by veteran and award-winning podcasters, Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson. Each episode provides information, resources and ideas to our listeners, all available at the click of a link! You can expect to hear us talk about employment and entrepreneurship, financial advice and legal issues, technology, healthy living, housing, and so much more. New episodes every first and third Mondays of the month. Follow us on Facebook to stay updated! Find out more on our website at www.lookingforwardourway.com Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Tips for Entrepreneurs: Getting Started with Local Resources and Networking

    "In Ohio, small businesses drive $1,700,000,000 of economic impact. And in 2023, Ohio jobs create or Ohio businesses small businesses created 10,747 new jobs in 2023." Brett Johnson and Carol Ventresca invite Kelly Fuller, a seasoned guest expert and the Senior Vice President of the Columbus Chamber Foundation, to discuss entrepreneurship. Emphasizing local resources, Kelly provides a wealth of recommendations for those starting or running a small business. Networking and Local Resources Fuller highlights the importance of connecting with local chambers of commerce and economic development offices. These entities offer a plethora of networking opportunities and resources that can be invaluable for new business owners. Fuller underscores that even non-paying members can join chambers to benefit from networking events. Carol suggests that vendors, who are often fellow small business owners, are valuable sources of information. The discussion also brings attention to the importance of expanding one's networking horizon beyond their own industry. This approach can help entrepreneurs meet potential customers and peers in similar situations, thus broadening their support network. Programs and Initiatives The Columbus Chamber has multiple programs aimed at supporting small businesses. One notable initiative is the Accelerate Program, funded by the city of Columbus. This program includes sessions like "brand camp" tailored to help businesses with their branding and messaging. Other remarkable programs include: Local Libraries and SBA Resources Local libraries and SBA Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are also highlighted as essential resources. Public libraries often have business centers or knowledgeable librarians who can provide guidance. SBA SBDCs are particularly useful as they offer services even in rural areas. The Ohio Small Business Development Centers are widely accessible and federally funded, suggesting that similar resources might be available in other states as well. Fuller advises new entrepreneurs to be cautious and thoroughly research available resources to avoid unnecessary spending. Many resources can be accessed free of charge or at a reduced cost, making it essential to leverage these tools early in the business journey. Financial Management and Legal Considerations The conversation touches on the crucial aspects of managing cash flow and financial growth. Entrepreneurs must exercise financial restraint, avoiding significant expenditures on premium options initially. Rapid growth can lead to complications, particularly if a business can't meet increased demand. They recommend utilizing local resources like the SBA and SBDC for guidance on navigating these complexities. Engaging professional services such as accountants or attorneys might be costly but approaching them well-prepared can make the interactions more cost-effective. Branding and Cost-Effective Strategies Branding emerges as a non-negotiable element of business success. "Brand Camp" by Conspire helps businesses establish their brand identity, which is crucial for differentiating in competitive markets. Fuller suggests that employing interns from colleges or high schools for managing social media and branding tasks can be a budget-friendly option. For example, Ohio State University's Bucks GoPro program offers opportunities to engage student-athletes for handling social media efforts. Additionally, Carol points out that cultivating relationships with professionals like CPAs can significantly aid as the company grows. Starting initially with interns or affordable solutions makes it easier for businesses to scale their professional...

    31 min

  2. JAN 6

    Strategies for Entrepreneurial Success: Tips from Ohio's Business Experts

    We are thrilled to present an episode rich with insights for aspiring and current entrepreneurs, with tips from several local experts. Each guest brings a wealth of experience and valuable advice for those looking to start or grow their businesses in Ohio. We begin by discussing the significance of self-confidence and the myriad of questions that come with starting a business. Our first guest, Katie Ellis, the president and CEO of the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership, highlights the benefits of joining a Chamber of Commerce. Katie explains that chambers offer numerous opportunities for brand awareness, networking, and access to critical resources. Next, Carol introduces Frank Agin, president of AmSpirit Business Connections. Frank emphasizes the importance of networking in entrepreneurial success. He asserts that businesses thrive through relationships and provides three key networking tips. First, find a mentor who is well-connected and can offer guidance without necessarily charging for their services. Second, focus on building relationships with strategic partners who operate in the same circles but offer different products or services. Brett introduces Darlene Ziebell, a seasoned business adviser with over three decades of experience. Darlene provides crucial tips on developing a brand, particularly focusing on social media and marketing. She starts by stressing the importance of creating a compelling elevator message that conveys the unique value of a business. Lastly, Carol introduces Ken Lazar, the chief career officer for the Ability Professional Network. Ken underscores the importance of identifying a niche for your business. When he and his son started their executive search agency, they focused on recruiting sales professionals. This focus helped them build a strong, recognizable brand and become a go-to agency for companies looking to build their sales teams. Top Takeaways Utilize Chambers of Commerce: Joining a chamber can provide crucial opportunities for brand awareness, networking, professional development, and insights into local economic trends. Networking is Essential: Building relationships with mentors, strategic partners, and getting involved in the community are key strategies for networking. Develop a Strong Brand Identity: Create a clear elevator pitch that quickly conveys your unique value proposition to potential customers. Find Your Niche: Focusing on a specific niche or industry can help an entrepreneur's business stand out and become the go-to service provider in that area.Choose Effective Social Media Platforms: Identify the social media platforms where your target audience is most active and focus your efforts on consistently engaging with them there.Build Confidence and Seek Support: It's important to seek out and utilize available resources and support systems in your region.Community Involvement: Actively participating in community activities not only raises your exposure but also brands you as someone committed to making the community better.Continuous Professional Development: Entrepreneurs should continuously seek opportunities for professional development, including industry insights and best practices. We would love to hear from you. Give us your feedback, or...

    16 min

  3. 12/30/2024

    Reflecting on Five Years: A Year-End Message from Looking Forward Our Way

    Welcome to the new year! We are celebrating our five-year mark as we enter 2025. We began during the COVID-19 pandemic and have since produced over 124 episodes. We appreciate our loyal listeners and enjoy making the podcasts. We emphasize the importance of having the right co-host and maintaining a good rhythm in their conversations. Our podcast focuses on interviewing experts to provide valuable information to listeners. We encourage listener feedback and suggestions for future topics, aiming to be a resource for the community. The show plans topics well in advance and is open to exploring new experts and international perspectives. We are implementing a "Buy Me A Coffee" app to help cover podcast costs and receive feedback. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! We stress the accessibility of podcasts for all age groups and provide instructions for listening. Thanks to you, our listener, and wish you happy holidays and a happy New Year. Key Moments [00:00:00]: Reflecting on the Year and Looking Ahead [00:00:14]: Celebrating Five Years of Podcasting [00:00:41]: Overcoming Challenges and Reaching 100 Episodes [00:01:25]: The Importance of Finding the Right Co-Host [00:02:08]: Conducting Interviews: Virtual vs. In-Studio [00:02:52]: Providing Resources and Expert Advice [00:04:26]: Planning and Preparing for the Upcoming Year [00:06:21]: Encouraging Listener Feedback and Topic Suggestions [00:07:48]: Expanding Topics and Expert Network [00:11:05]: Introducing the 'Buy Me a Coffee' Feature We would love to hear from you. Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message. Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com. Find us on Facebook. Please review our podcast on Google! And of course, everything can be found on our website, Looking Forward Our Way. Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants. Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!

    15 min

  4. 12/16/2024

    Recovering Financially After a Spouse Passes Away

    How can the death of a spouse affect the surviving partner's financial stability and credit score, and what steps can be taken to mitigate these impacts? We discuss financial challenges facing Ohioans aged 50 and over, with a specific focus on surviving spouses. Featuring consumer law attorney Laura Nesbitt, the episode focuses on the financial instability that can arise after the death of a spouse, emphasizing the importance of managing banks, bills, and credit scores effectively. Laura highlights that accessing accounts often requires a death certificate, and autopay bills can become problematic without account access. Estate planning should extend beyond a will and power of attorney, incorporating detailed financial documentation to facilitate smoother transitions during crises. Technology aids like Monarch Money, Quicken, and password management tools can help manage finances and account access. Regular credit report checks from major agencies are recommended to monitor and manage accounts. Addressing legal responsibilities, Laura advises against paying a deceased spouse's bills, except in joint account situations. She explains how nursing homes might wrongly bill family members and the need to verify any obligation to pay. Estates with assets or debts generally go through probate, allowing six months for creditors to file claims post-death. Informing credit bureaus of a spouse's death and freezing their Social Security number can prevent new debts and identity theft, while freezing one's own credit can be protective and temporary. Laura discusses the burdens and stigmas of homeownership and bankruptcy. Full mortgage leverage can risk financial instability if the market drops, making Chapter 13 bankruptcy a viable solution for stripping second mortgage liens. She highlights that renting may be more economical for older individuals with no home equity. The financial impact on surviving spouses can include reduced Social Security benefits and loss of additional income. Comprehensive financial information and family support are crucial, with open discussions about managing finances and knowing available resources. For families with dependents like grandchildren, seeking financial contributions from other household members is vital. Laura emphasizes that people often delay considering bankruptcy despite its potential benefits, due to the credit industry's stigma. Bankruptcy can stop creditor contact and prevent further credit score damage. Suitability for bankruptcy depends on individual circumstances, with certain debts like student loans and recent tax debts being non-dischargeable. Key Moments 00:00 Consumer law attorney, bankruptcy expert since 2009. 03:08 Importance of managing credit scores after spouse's death. 09:17 Utility bills can impact credit if reported. 12:40 Ensure personal account responsibility; avoid joint accounts. 13:24 Keep financial accounts separate to avoid issues. 16:32 Organize finances and passwords for estate planning. 22:07 Check credit reports quarterly to monitor accounts. 24:08 Verify responsibility before paying deceased spouse's bills. 27:42 Consider freezing credit, especially for security. 31:28 Research carefully before entering debt management programs. 35:47 Evaluate finances and debt; bankruptcy may help. 38:25 Chapter 13 bankruptcy can strip 2nd mortgages. 40:09 Older spouse survivor faces reduced income sources. 43:09 Generosity often leads to personal financial debt. 47:27 Merging firms for comprehensive tax and bankruptcy services. 49:00 In-house services streamline, avoid restarts, ensure continuity. We would love to hear from you. Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message. Email us at...

    51 min

  5. 12/02/2024

    COAAA Advisory Council

    The latest episode of "Looking Forward Our Way" features an engaging discussion about the pivotal role of advisory councils in addressing the needs of older adults at the state and local levels. The episode brings together Anna Tobin and Melissa Owens, two prominent figures in the aging services sector, to share their insights and experiences. Grant Ames, Government and Community Relations Manager at the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA), also provides valuable context about the agency's goals and operations. Anna Tobin: Role as Council MemberAnna Tobin, President of the COAAA Advisory Council and Executive Director of Meals on Wheels Older Adult Alternatives of Fairfield County, shares her extensive experience in social services, emphasizing the importance of advisory councils. Anna describes these councils as invaluable platforms for networking and bringing community needs to the forefront. By participating in advisory council planning sessions, members can support both state and local aging plans. Anna's discussion includes the sharing of legislative information, talking points for advocacy, and insights into funding opportunities, such as the ARPA funds and healthy aging grants. The networking aspect allows for an exchange of vital information with colleagues, enhancing service delivery across regions. Melissa Owens: Benefits to CountiesMelissa Owens, Executive Director for Licking County Aging Partners, elaborates on the benefits county-level stakeholders gain from council meetings. She stresses the importance of educating county legislators and officials about the federal-state-local system, aiding them in understanding and navigating resources at various governmental levels. These meetings also facilitate connections and knowledge gathering from experienced individuals, thereby equipping counties with the tools needed to effectively serve older adult populations. Problem-Solving within the CouncilMelissa Owens explains the council's role as a resource network for problem-solving, noting that other members may have encountered and resolved similar issues. Planning and CollaborationAnna Tobin provides insight into the critical planning process supported by advisory councils, referencing the Ohio Department of Aging's strategic plans. She underscores the importance of aligning local goals with state objectives to ensure quality services for seniors. Shared Innovations and LearningThroughout the discussion, the speakers share examples of successful initiatives and collaboration efforts. Anna Tobin mentions a guardianship service board modeled after Franklin County's initiative, highlighting the process of securing startup funding and adapting successful models locally. Melissa Owens talks about adaptable programs like friendly visitor and senior companion programs, adjusted based on county demographics and needs. Building Connections for New LeadersGrant Ames stresses the importance of strong regional networks in supporting senior services, pointing out the benefits for new leaders to learn from their experienced counterparts. The advisory councils not only aid in navigating complex systems but also foster professional growth and knowledge sharing. Key Moments 00:00 Advisory council collaborates on older adult services. 03:42 Grateful senior services leader with extensive experience. 07:45 Networking, community advocacy, planning, implementing support initiatives locally. 10:00 Learning and sharing process knowledge with counties. 12:53 Advisory council efficiently solves nonprofit organization problems. 17:36 Similar issues in urban, suburban, rural areas. 22:28 Supporting aging plans through local strategic implementation. 25:53 Connecting new leaders with experienced mentors strengthens region. 27:21 Contact local aging office;...

    29 min

  6. 11/18/2024

    The $100 Million Investment Revolutionizing Ohio's Future Workforce

    "This was a a really strong convening then for employers and education to to better communicate and then plan on how to improve that connectivity between graduating students and employment." We welcome guest experts John Hambrick, Work-Based Learning Coordinator at the Educational Service Center (ESC) of Central Ohio, and Lauren Stowe Jones, Senior Director of K-12 Partnerships at Columbus State Community College. John Hambrick, who moved to Columbus in 1998, transitioned from a background in education and restaurant industry work into non-profit roles, ultimately leading him to his current position in workforce development at ESC of Central Ohio. The Educational Service Center serves 30 member school districts across eight counties, working to bridge the gap between K-12 education and industry needs. Lauren Stowe Jones started her educational journey as a 7th-grade teacher in Boston but returned to Central Ohio due to high living costs. She joined Columbus State Community College, where she worked on reforming developmental education to reduce the need for remedial courses. Presently, she oversees 10,000 high school students taking college credit courses through the College Credit Plus program. This significant initiative offers free college courses to high school students, impacting their educational pathways. Both guests emphasize preparing students for future job markets by aligning educational programs with evolving industry demands in Central Ohio. They highlight dual enrollment and teacher education programs as critical strategies. Lauren discusses how dual enrollment influences teaching demographics and necessitates changes in teacher preparation to deploy educators quickly and support their continuous development. John highlights Ohio's emphasis on expanding registered apprenticeship programs, especially to address teacher shortages, and mentions the creation of teacher academies in school districts as pre-apprenticeships. Ohio's alternative licensure models are also a focal point, creating pathways for veterans and industry professionals to enter teaching roles. John outlines significant state funding to support education, including a $100 million investment from the Ohio legislature for career technical education equipment and workforce boot camps. While the full impact of these initiatives on students remains to be seen, the guests express optimism about creating more informed and prepared students. The conversation turns to the integration of technology, particularly the role of AI, in education. AI is viewed as a complement to traditional teaching methods rather than a replacement. Teachers will need to adapt, and educational policies will have to guide the use of AI in schools. Community involvement is also essential, with partnerships between colleges, businesses, and economic development sectors shaping educational messages and providing resources. Educational innovation is discussed, including the creation of innovation labs equipped with VR, 3D printers, and augmented reality tools. These efforts aim to provide equitable access to technology for all students. Programs like the Intel project highlight economic development activities, with a need to communicate future manufacturing and economic opportunities to the community. Columbus State has introduced career educators focused on in-demand industries and developed tailored educational materials for various audiences to spread awareness about regional career opportunities. Partnerships with economic development partners are crucial to bring business insights into the educational realm, helping prepare students for new career pathways. Emerging technologies, smart mobility, and connected technology in Central Ohio are also highlighted, with resources provided by entities like the Department of Transportation and DriveOhio. Columbus State’s advanced training center in New...

    1h 13m

  7. 11/04/2024

    The Value of Veterans in the Civilian Workforce

    Employee resource groups (ERGs) are vital in providing support to veterans, helping them feel less isolated and more integrated into their new work environments. We sit down with Ronnie Bailey, the Human Resources Manager at Bullen Ultrasonics, to talk about a critical topic during this National Veterans and Military Families Month: the value of veterans in the civilian workforce. We explore the challenges veterans face when transitioning from military to civilian life. This includes the stress of job loss and the mental health issues stemming from a perceived loss of importance. Ronnie shares his journey from military leadership to HR, highlighting the significance of explaining the "why" to motivate younger workers and how this applies across both military and civilian contexts. We discuss the importance of veteran services, hiring programs, and the resources available but often unknown to veterans. Ronnie’s experience at Bullen, recognized for its outstanding veteran hiring program, offers a unique perspective on helping veterans translate their military skills into civilian job success. We also touch on the importance of creating an inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and the unique strengths veterans bring to the table. Learn more about how employers can better support their veteran employees and the mutual benefits this brings to both veterans and their organizations. Top Takeaways Veterans often face significant stress and mental health issues when transitioning from military to civilian life, particularly when job loss forces them to move back with their parents. Although veteran services and resources are available, many veterans are unaware of how to access them, highlighting the need for better information dissemination. Employee resource groups (ERGs) are vital in providing support to veterans, helping them feel less isolated and more integrated into their new work environments. There is often a disconnect between the languages and job tasks understood by veterans and civilian hiring managers, which can complicate job placement and retention. Motivating younger employees, both in the military and civilian workforce, requires leaders to communicate the purpose and value behind tasks and roles. Initiatives such as Bullen’s military hiring program, which has received recognition from the US Department of Labor with the Hire Vets Medallion, are crucial for successfully incorporating veterans into civilian jobs. Veterans might struggle with interviews due to the shift from a team-focused military environment to an individual-focused civilian job market, necessitating specific support and preparation. Veterans often possess valuable leadership skills and a continuous improvement mindset learned in the military, which is beneficial in civilian roles, particularly in HR and supervision. Including veterans at all levels within a company enriches the workplace with diverse experiences and perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment. While veterans should be provided with the necessary support, treating them equally without undue special treatment is as important as ensuring they feel like a part of the team and the larger valued workforce. Key Moments 06:23 Former packaging worker explores changing manufacturing processes. 09:42 Career advancement opportunities are less as you climb. 13:32 Good NCOs support and inspire soldiers personally. 17:37 Help new hires understand and sell...

    46 min

  8. 10/21/2024

    How League of Women Voters Fights for Fair Elections and Campaign Transparency

    Empowering Voters: Understanding Campaign Financing, Fair Districting, and Poll Participation Brett and Carol chat with Jen Miller, the Executive Director of the League of Women Voters Ohio, about the nitty-gritty of ballot issues and voting policies. Jen talks about a cool bipartisan effort to draft a new amendment (Issue 1), mentioning notable figures like Maureen O'Connor and Yvette McGee Brown. This amendment has some serious backing from a wide range of groups, including teachers' and nurses' unions, the NAACP, and even the Libertarian Party. The conversation takes a turn towards the topic of dark money in politics, which became a hot issue after the Citizens United decision. Jen underscores the need for transparency so voters know who’s funding political ads. She’s passionate about ending gerrymandering, believing it would make legislatures more responsive and improve policymaking. Gerrymandering, she argues, kills voter satisfaction and participation. More engagement and compromise in the legislature would tone down extremism and serve citizens better. Jen encourages everyone to get involved in democracy, pointing to resources like vote411.org and voteohio.gov. She also talks about the importance of becoming poll workers and making sure our communities are ready to vote. Jen criticizes gerrymandering for reducing accountability and allowing representatives to focus more on party extremes and big donors rather than a broader voter base. Despite these obstacles, she urges citizens to stay vocal and visit district offices. The League of Women Voters Ohio is highlighted as a diverse organization in terms of age, offering great opportunities for mentorship between older and younger members. Jen gives tips on making voting less intimidating for young voters, like checking registration and polling locations since these frequently change. We talk about Ohio’s strict voter ID requirements—now including passports and specific veteran IDs while excluding county veteran IDs. Jen calls for veterans to advocate for changes to these laws. There's also a mention of fewer candidates participating in forums, which reduces chances for voter-candidate interactions. The League organizes forums with a “speed dating” style to let voters meet candidates without heated debates. Jen and Brett discuss the rise of misinformation and the need for consuming diverse media to keep from getting stuck in echo chambers. Brett expresses frustration when candidates don't take forum questions seriously, feeling it reflects poorly on their ability to serve in office. They both mention the impact of gerrymandering on these issues. In Ohio, recent changes to the election process have led to voter dissatisfaction, partly fueled by misinformation from elected officials. Jen suggests voters hold state authorities like the Secretary of State accountable for election integrity. She also lists ways to engage, like attending hearings, contacting election boards, volunteering as poll workers, and using the Election Protection Hotline (866-OUR-VOTE) for any issues. The League of Women Voters is all about fair election practices and doesn't play sides. They've been around since the Ohio Women's Suffrage Association days, focusing on empowering voters, especially women. They operate on national, state, and local levels and rely heavily on volunteers to keep things running smoothly. Jen emphasizes the importance of informed voting and spells out the steps for absentee/mail voters, urging them not to procrastinate. Tips include mailing ballots early and using county dropboxes to avoid delays. She also goes over Ohio's strict ID requirements again, stressing that voters need to check what’s valid now. Jen dives deeper into gerrymandering, explaining Issue 1 (OH), which aims to reform the redistricting process. The goal is to keep politicians and lobbyists out, ensure a balanced commission, and...

    1h 10m
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4.2
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

The Looking Forward Our Way podcast addresses today’s critical issues that impact the lives, and livelihood, of those traveling their own way. The podcsat is co-hosted by veteran and award-winning podcasters, Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson. Each episode provides information, resources and ideas to our listeners, all available at the click of a link! You can expect to hear us talk about employment and entrepreneurship, financial advice and legal issues, technology, healthy living, housing, and so much more. New episodes every first and third Mondays of the month. Follow us on Facebook to stay updated! Find out more on our website at www.lookingforwardourway.com Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com

Information

  • Creator
    Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    123
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
  • Show Website
    Looking Forward Our Way

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