Looking Forward Our Way

Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
  • 4.2 (9)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY
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. 5D AGO

    Defending Your Identity: Strategies Against Hacks and Scams

    What steps should you take if you suspect your identity has been stolen? We are joined by guest Victor Russell, Operations Manager at Apprisen, to explore the pervasive issue of financial scams and how individuals can protect themselves. The discussion covers various scams, primarily targeting seniors, such as the "grandparent scam" where victims are manipulated into sending money continuously until they realize they have been deceived. Another prevalent scam involves romance, where lonely individuals are exploited into giving money, leading to severe financial repercussions like unmanageable debts. Russell underscores the importance of regularly obtaining a credit report to defend against identity theft, given the frequency of database breaches. He recommends using AnnualCreditReport.com to obtain detailed reports from the three major agencies. To add another layer of protection, Russell recommends freezing credit reports, which can prevent unauthorized loans but must be unfrozen before applying for new personal loans. Victor advises against responding to unsolicited digital communications, especially those with suspicious links, as they are often scams. Government agencies like the IRS and the Social Security Administration do not request sensitive information via email or phone. He also stresses the importance of younger individuals being cautious about their online presence, sharing an example involving his daughters and potentially compromising online content. Support this Podcast For those who fall victim to identity theft, Russell outlines a process: contact financial institutions and credit card companies notify the Social Security office file a police report. ftc.gov and the AARP Fraud Watch Line assist identity theft victimsSocial Security Administration and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau also offer support. Apprisen, the organization Russell represents, is a non-profit agency providing a range of financial services for over 70 years, including debt management, credit health education, housing counseling, and assistance with student loan management. Most services are free, though some may have fees based on income eligibility. Apprisen’s free & secure financial analysis: https://iris.apprisen.com/ Key Moments 00:00 Negotiating terms, managing expenses, and providing credit education. 04:26 Lower interest rates boost homebuying and counseling. 08:04 Rise in grandparent scam targeting seniors via phone. 10:42 Rising scams target financially stable, vulnerable individuals. 13:17 Check credit reports for identity theft detection. 19:29 Verify contacts and email sources for security. 22:53 Fraud incident led to insurance and identity loss. 25:51 Be cautious responding to unsolicited digital surveys. 28:28 Be cautious with text communication; it's public. 31:46 File police report, and notify financial institutions immediately. 37:08 Protect and monitor investments against potential threats. 40:02 Unfreeze credit report for loan approval issues. 41:24 Keep Medicare card secure to prevent theft. 47:19 Listener resources included in show notes. 49:12 Regularly check and reconcile financial statements. 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 a...

    53 min

  2. FEB 17

    VOICECorps An Essential Service For Individuals With Visual Impairments in Ohio

    Our focus is on VOICECorps, an essential service for individuals with visual impairments in Ohio. Featuring guests Mark Jividen, the Executive Director, and Dana Sims, the Marketing and Development Director, the episode explores the organization's impactful work, its adaptation to new technologies, and the crucial role of volunteers. Mark Jividen starts by discussing how the prevalence of blindness has shifted over time. Previously, many young people were affected by diseases now largely conquered. Today, the issue is more prevalent among the aging population due to conditions like diabetes, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This rise in blindness among the elderly population coincides with a reduction in traditional support systems, leading to increased isolation. Dana Sims outlines how Voicecorps serves this community by providing real-time news and information, such as reading grocery ads, which helps foster independence. The service also offers entertainment and a friendly voice, creating a sense of community and combating isolation. Volunteers, who often form long-term relationships with listeners, are integral to VOICECorps' operations. Sims notes that the service's programming is reminiscent of old-time radio, blending news and entertainment in a holistic manner. Daily broadcasting operations at Voicecorps are comprehensive, starting with live broadcasts from 7 AM to 10:30 AM, including segments like the Wall Street Journal and local news. Most content is prerecorded and undergoes quality checks before broadcast. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! The organization has consistently upgraded its equipment to a fully digital operation, funded by state capital budgets and local foundations over the past six years. VOICECorps offers programming in two formats: live and on-demand, akin to podcasting, and began streaming content in 2001. They are now transitioning to a podcast platform for easier access and subscription. Listeners can provide feedback and suggest new materials through a feedback line, and the service is accessible via several methods including live streaming on their website, smart speakers, over-the-air broadcasting in several Ohio cities, virtual TV channels, and SAP channels on Ohio cable. Applications are available for both Android and iPhone users. Voicecorps encourages listener engagement to provide feedback to supporters and volunteers. Founded by individuals with visual impairments and utilizing FM radio subcarriers for background music, VOICECorps launched on November 17, 1975, and is approaching its 50th anniversary. It was one of the first such services in the U.S. and remains unique due to its initiation by service recipients. The podcast highlights how Voicecorps reduces isolation among people, particularly the elderly, by providing timely information and connecting them to resources. The episode ends with a call to foster relationships, share contact information, and continue to impact lives positively. Key Moments 00:00 Broadcasting career spanned decades in Columbus radio. 06:05 Early talking books: vinyl for accessibility. 07:20 Voicecorps began broadcasting timely news, 1975. 12:51 Empowering independence through accessible news and advertisements. 16:05 Volunteers read, diverse backgrounds, remote flexibility. 20:32 Programs can be recorded and shared remotely. 23:25 Technology accelerated growth during pandemic challenges. 28:31 Broadcast isn't live after 10:30; it's prerecorded. 32:04 Transitioning from streaming to...

    50 min

  3. FEB 3

    What You Need to Know about Inherited IRAs with Schraeder Law

    The federal government created individual retirement accounts (IRAs) in the mid-1970s as a retirement savings vehicle. Over time, the financial landscape has changed, impacting tax consequences and distribution rules for IRAs, especially inherited non-spousal accounts. We welcome expert Larae Schraeder from Schraeder Law to discuss Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and the associated financial and tax consequences, particularly for inherited non-spousal accounts. Larae, who transitioned from financial services to law, brings expertise in estate planning, probate, and elder law. She underscores that IRAs, typically tied to an individual's Social Security number, provide special tax treatment. This discussion broadens to include other retirement accounts like 401ks and 403(b)s, underscoring their importance as pensions fade away. Key topics include required minimum distributions (RMDs) that mandate individuals withdraw a minimum amount annually once they reach a certain age. Updating beneficiary designations is crucial to ensure accounts bypass probate and avoid complications. Fees are another critical issue. Understanding all associated costs and their impact on your financial planning is essential. The complexities of inheriting IRAs are also discussed. Legislative changes now require non-spousal heirs to withdraw inherited IRAs within ten years, often resulting in significant tax burdens. Qualified charitable distributions can help reduce taxable income. Surviving spouses have more options; they can treat the deceased spouse’s IRA as their own or as an inherited IRA. Lorraine advises professional guidance to tailor strategies according to individual situations, particularly because some decisions have strict deadlines following the account holder's death. Debts of the deceased are also addressed. Generally, debts aren't passed to heirs, but IRAs without beneficiaries can be used to pay off debts during probate. Therefore, having designated beneficiaries ensures funds pass directly to heirs. Key Takeaways Beneficiary Designations: It's crucial to keep beneficiary information up-to-date. Outdated or unclear designations can lead to unintended consequences and added complexity for your heirs. Understanding RMDs: Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) can significantly impact your taxable income and Medicare costs. Knowing the RMD rules and planning ahead can help mitigate these effects. Inherited IRAs: If you inherit an IRA, especially as a non-spousal beneficiary, understanding the recent legislative changes and the 10-year distribution rule is essential to manage tax obligations effectively. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! Key Moments 00:00 From Finance to Estate Law 04:09 IRA Importance for Retirement Savings 09:31 Estate Benefits: Naming Pitfalls 11:02 Choosing the Right IRA Custodian 14:48 Automatic Fund Transfers & Beneficiary Updates 17:58 Marriage's Impact on Beneficiary Designations 23:14 Unintended Financial Gaps in Inheritance 26:38 Qualified Charitable Distributions Limitations 30:37 Plan Early for IRA Distributions 34:03 Managing Estate Disputes as Executor 37:13 Inherited IRA Decision Guidance We would love to hear from you. Give us your feedback,...

    40 min

  4. JAN 20

    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

  5. 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

  6. 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 Bluesky and 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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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
    126
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
  • Show Website
    Looking Forward Our Way

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