Looking Forward Our Way

Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
  • 4.2 (9)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

We feature expert guests who provide real-world insights, inspiration, and resources, making each episode a valuable touchpoint for adults. You can expect to hear us discuss a wide range of topics, including employment and entrepreneurship, financial advice, legal issues, technology, healthy living, housing, and much more. New episodes are released twice a month. You can also sign up for our free newsletter, access additional resources, or contact the hosts directly at hello@lookingforwardourway.com. If you’re interested in joining a supportive community, learning from experts, and staying ahead of important trends and issues, tune in and subscribe today! The podcast is co-hosted by veteran and award-winning podcasters Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson.

  1. FEB 1

    From Back Pain to Balance: Building Resilient Health with Dr. Coffman

    Healthy aging isn’t just about years—it's about living well NOW to enjoy vibrant decades ahead! Or as we jokingly say in this episode, "two-steppin' your way to better health!" We had the pleasure of featuring Dr. Jacob Coffman of Optimize Chiropractic. The conversation isn’t just about pain relief; it’s about mastering mobility, building healthspan, and making sustainable changes for the long run. Here are our top 3 takeaways: Healthspan should MATCH lifespan: Don’t just aim to live longer; aim to maximize the years you’re strong, mobile, and active. Dr. Coffman highlights that the average person spends about 12 years in poor health—let’s reduce that gap!Personalization is key: One-size-fits-all care doesn’t exist. Whether it’s strength training, lifestyle tweaks, or balancing work/life demands, effective plans are tailored to each person’s goals and realities.It’s never too late to start: No matter your age or starting point, small, consistent steps—like upping your daily steps, increasing fiber, or focusing on balance—can lead to meaningful improvement. We love Dr. Coffman's reminder that we should set realistic goals, move consistently, and fiercely protect our function as we age. Baby steps, done regularly, deliver big results! If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! Moments 00:00 Journey to Love and Career 04:07 Extending Healthspan Over Lifespan 09:53 Choosing the Right Practitioner 11:55 Choose the Right Chiropractic Care 15:18 Chiropractic: Pain Relief & Function 18:28 Personalized Goal Achievement Strategies 23:03 Baseline Data Tracks Recovery Progress 24:26 Tracking Progress and Personalizing Care 28:04 Patient Consultation and Exam Process 31:54 Personalized Care for Unique Lives 34:20 Effective Personal Training Plans 40:16 "Gradual Progress for Better Health" 43:04 Debunking Aging and Pain Myths 46:42 Never Too Late to Start 49:42 "Importance of Support for Wellness" 54:07 Progress Through Consistent Baby Steps 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...

    58 min

  2. JAN 19

    How The Columbus Metropolitan Library’s Culture Pass Connects the Community

    Whether you’re already an avid library fan or just looking for ways to explore Columbus on a budget, this episode has everything you need to know about unlocking incredible cultural adventures through your local library. We are shining the spotlight on one of Central Ohio’s most exciting community resources—the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s Culture Pass program. Joined by special guest Stephanie Burley, the library’s manager of circulation, we explore the origins, growth, and behind-the-scenes workings of this innovative program that gives library cardholders free access to nearly 20 cultural organizations across the region. From the Franklin Park Conservatory to the Columbus Clippers, and even the Columbus Crew, the Culture Pass program opens the doors to museums, theaters, sporting events, and more—at no cost. Stephanie shares her two-decade journey at the library, the impact of community partnerships, and how the library’s dedicated team makes it all possible. Who’s eligible? How do you get a pass? And what’s coming up next for the program? Listen for tips on how to get the most out of your experience, stories of community excitement, and details on how you can provide feedback or suggest new organizations for the Culture Pass. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! Here are our top 3 takeaways: • Expansive & Growing Access: The Culture Pass program has expanded from just 2 partners in 2018 to nearly 20 organizations in 2025—including museums, theaters, sports teams, and more. The best part? Every pass is donated, saving local families significant costs on cultural experiences. • Open to All Ohio Residents: You don’t have to live in Columbus to benefit! Anyone residing in Ohio can obtain a Columbus Metropolitan Library card (it’s quick, easy, and free) and start enjoying these cultural passes—no matter your age. • Personal Connections & Support: The success of Culture Pass hinges on dedicated library staff at every branch, who help patrons navigate the process. Each pass is unique (some are physical, some use promo codes), but the team is always ready to guide you—including troubleshooting and celebrating your experiences! 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 2026 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Mentioned in this episode: Listener Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by the...

    34 min

  3. JAN 5

    The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio's Impact on Central Ohio Arts

    Whether you’re passionate about the performing arts or curious about building community through creativity, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical ways to support and connect with the arts in Columbus. In this episode, hosts Brett Johnson and Carol Ventresca sit down with Christy Farnbaugh, executive director of the Contemporary Theatre of Ohio. Columbus has long been known for its vibrant arts community, and today, Christy shares her journey from Otterbein music major to arts administration leader, highlighting the importance of mentors, networks, and resilience in the arts. We explore the role of the Contemporary Theatre of Ohio—formerly CATCO—and its impact on local artists, education programs for kids, and community building. Christy reveals how the organization navigated a dramatic transformation during the pandemic, from rebranding to embracing virtual performances, and discusses the importance of intergenerational connections and producing timely, empathetic stories for Central Ohio. Moments 00:00 "Christy's Theater Journey Unveiled" 09:59 "Pursuing Passion Amid Challenges" 15:49 "Career Paths and Connections" 20:21 "Arts and Community Value Proposition" 23:42 "Revamping Name and Brand Strategy" 28:58 "Columbus Talent with Local Ties" 33:13 "Kids' Anxiety Through Humor" 39:25 "Pandemic, Laughter, and Aging Arts" 44:40 Empowering Kids Through Writing 51:34 "Zoom and Teams' Lasting Impact" 58:46 "Diverse Plays for Columbus" 01:00:13 "Primary Trust: Identity and Imagination" 01:04:39 Volunteer Opportunities and Education Involvement 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 Takeaways: The Power of Local Storytelling: The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio tells stories rooted in the current moment to build empathy, hiring local artists so the art created directly enriches our community.Building an Ecosystem, not Competition: Columbus boasts a unique arts ecosystem, where professional, community, and educational theaters work together to expand opportunities for artists, creators, and audiences.Arts as a Vehicle for Wellness & Growth: Whether through creative aging programs, anxiety-reducing children’s workshops, or supporting mentorship, theater provides pathways for well-being, social-emotional learning, and intergenerational connection. 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 a href="https://my.captivate.fm/www.channel511.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 7m

  4. JAN 1

    How You Can Help Shape the Podcast This New Year

    Happy New Year—and thank you for being part of the journey! As we celebrate the show’s sixth year—and nearly a decade since our very first podcast together—we pause to express heartfelt gratitude to you, our dedicated listeners. We discuss the rapid growth of podcasting among adults over 50, the importance of feedback and topic suggestions, and the exciting changes introduced this year—including a fresh logo and revamped newsletter. We share behind-the-scenes insights on building community connections, working with local experts, and the ongoing evolution of the podcast based on your input. Whether you’re a longtime fan or tuning in for the first time, we invite you to help shape the show’s future, keep the conversation lively, and look forward to even more engaging stories and interviews in the coming year. 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 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. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ The views and opinions expressed by the experts interviewed on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations. The information provided in these interviews is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for specific advice or information related to their individual circumstances. The podcast host and producers do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided by the experts interviewed. Listener discretion is advised. Mentioned in this episode: Listener Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by the experts interviewed on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations. The information provided in these interviews is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for specific advice or information related to their individual circumstances. The podcast host and producers do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided by the experts interviewed. Listener discretion is advised.

    11 min

  5. 12/29/2025

    Reflecting on Three Decades of Workforce Change with Kelly Fuller

    This episode of Looking Forward Our Way is a special one for us as we sit down with our good friend Kelly Fuller, Senior Vice President of Workforce and Workplace Innovation for the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. The conversation is bittersweet, as Kelly will be retiring from the chamber in early 2026. We’re grateful for her friendship and years of commitment to workforce development and Employment for Seniors in Central Ohio. Even though her chapter at the Chamber is coming to a close, we’re already thinking up future excuses for her to come back to the studio. We take a look at the major shifts the region has experienced—from the decline of manufacturing to the rise of sectors like healthcare, education, and professional services. Kelly shares insights from her own career journey, discusses the changing nature of work and the challenges businesses and workers face today, and explores critical issues like talent retention, the influence of new industries, and the ever-present need for adaptability in the job market. Plus, we don't shy away from discussing tough topics like affordable housing, evolving work environments, and what the future holds for both employers and job seekers. Whether you’re interested in the history of Central Ohio’s workforce, current labor market trends, or you just want some thoughtful career advice, this episode offers valuable wisdom—and a few laughs along the way. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! Top Takeaways Adaptability is Essential Opportunities often arise unexpectedly, and developing transferable skills opens doors to new industries. Kelly herself found her path by leveraging teaching skills in training roles—a testament to staying curious and never pigeonholing yourself. Industry Evolution & Talent Gaps Manufacturing’s decline in workforce isn’t about lost opportunity—it’s about technological transformation. Central Ohio remains a hub for innovation, but companies and job seekers need to stay ahead by networking, continuously reskilling, and understanding shifting local labor statistics. People-Centric Growth Whether you’re a business leader or a job hunter, the focus should be on building supportive environments. As Kelly emphasizes, investing in community, addressing housing, and embracing flexible work arrangements isn’t just good policy—it’s essential for attracting and retaining talent in an ever-changing landscape. Moments 00:00 Workforce Development Retrospective 03:14 Small-Town Roots, Workforce Journey 08:02 Ohio's Evolving Manufacturing Landscape 12:31 Healthcare Jobs Surge in Ohio 14:58 Career Planning Challenges Ahead 18:23 "Columbus Way: Balanced Economy Insights" 22:24 Downtown Living and Housing Solutions 24:50 "Remote Work's Impact and Pushback" 29:38 Expanding Workforce & Talent Pipelines 31:11 "Building Community-Focused Infrastructure" 33:42 "Focus on Regional Strengths" 39:31 People-Centric Growth and Belonging 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. a...

    42 min

  6. 12/15/2025

    Prenups – What Are They And Who Needs Them?

    The True Purpose of Prenups - "I think people think of prenuptial as Just planning for divorce. But all marriages end in one of two ways, divorce or death. And so where I find that some agreements fall short is in planning for the second scenario, whichever it is." - Larae SchraederLet’s be honest—talking about prenups with a partner, friend, or family member can feel uncomfortable and sticky. The conversation is often laced with worries about trust, fairness, and what it means for a relationship. That’s exactly why we felt it was important to bring clarity to this conversation. To help us do just that, we invited Larae Schraeder, an award-winning attorney from Schraeder Law, who specializes in estate planning, probate, and elder law. Larae brings a wealth of experience, with her background in both law and financial services, making her perspective especially valuable for this topic. We explore the ins and outs of prenups and postnups, why open conversations about finances are critical before tying the knot, and how these legal documents can go far beyond just preparing for divorce. From protecting children and business interests to navigating new changes in Ohio law, this episode is packed with practical advice and personal stories to help couples (and their families) prepare for whatever the future may hold. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! 5 Keys You’ll Learn from This Episode:Why talking finances before marriage is a must—even if you’re not Bill Gates (spoiler: it’s about all relationships, not just the rich ones). What a prenup really covers—it’s not just about divorce, but also what happens when marriage ends by death. How enforceable is your napkin agreement? (Hint: Notarization, signatures, and full disclosure are everything!) The lowdown on postnups—did you know Ohio just updated its laws, making postnuptial agreements an option for couples already married? Myths vs. reality: Prenups aren’t just about protecting yourself—they can also protect children, address business ventures, and even outline how to handle unexpected windfalls (hello, surprise royalties or farm booms!). Moments 04:55 Notarization for Real Estate Promises 06:52 Prenups: Beyond Divorce Planning 10:54 Undisclosed Assets in Divorce Settlements 15:24 Marital Agreements and Estate Planning 16:53 Prenuptial Agreements: Motivations and Considerations 20:43 Prenup Considerations for Unique Needs 23:14 Medicaid Impact on Long-Term Care 26:06 Updated Divorce Agreement Strategies 30:06 Contracts Beyond Marriage: Versatile Agreements 32:29 Podcast Insights with Larae Schrader 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, a...

    34 min

  7. 12/01/2025

    Making Sense of Central Ohio’s Growth and Challenges with The Columbus Foundation

    If you’ve ever wondered what makes Central Ohio tick—beyond the headlines and rumors—this episode is for you. We welcome Matthew Martin, Director of Community Research at The Columbus Foundation, for an in-depth look at the Benchmarking Central Ohio 2024 report. We dig into the strengths, challenges, and unique features that define our rapidly growing region and shed light on how data-driven research is helping shape smarter philanthropy, more effective local policy, and a better quality of life for everyone who calls Central Ohio home. Matthew walks us through the origins and purpose of the benchmarking report, what sets Columbus apart among its peer cities, and why it’s critical to not just gather data, but also fuel ongoing conversations for positive community change. Whether you’re interested in regional growth, housing, public health, or the diverse fabric that makes up Central Ohio, get ready for a conversation packed with insights, optimism, and a fresh perspective on how research is powering our region’s future. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! Here are 3 key takeaways from the discussion: Research-Backed Change: The Columbus Foundation’s benchmarking study isn't just about numbers—it’s a comprehensive review comparing Central Ohio to 22 peer regions, helping community leaders move beyond rumors to real, actionable insights.Complex Challenges, Collaborative Solutions: Central Ohio’s growth, diversity, and resilience are matched by persistent challenges—especially in areas like infant mortality, housing, and public health. The data doesn’t give prescriptive answers, but sparks essential community conversations and inspires collaborative solutions across nonprofit, public, and corporate sectors.It’s a Community Effort: Philanthropy in Columbus isn’t just about big-dollar donors; it’s about countless individuals making an impact together. The city’s unique strengths—like its youthful population and outstanding libraries—are the result of broad-based civic engagement and informed action. 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 2026 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Mentioned in this episode: Listener Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by the experts interviewed on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or...

    1 hr

  8. 11/17/2025

    Building Careers After Military Service: How Ohio Supports Its Veterans

    Whether you’re a veteran, an employer, or someone who wants to support veterans in your community, this episode is packed with practical advice and up-to-date resources to help ensure our veterans thrive after service. Welcome to another episode of "Looking Forward Our Way." This time, we’re putting the spotlight on the unique challenges faced by military veterans as they re-enter the civilian workforce. Joining hosts Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson is Ryan Blackburn, Senior Manager for Military and Federal Programs at Jobs Ohio and a veteran himself. Together, they explain the realities behind veteran employment, from overcoming resume roadblocks and translating military skills, to the vital support services Ohio offers. You’ll learn what’s working, where gaps still exist, and how local employers can play a pivotal role in creating meaningful job opportunities for those who have served. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! Moments 00:00 "Advancing Veteran Workforce in Ohio" 03:36 Supporting Veterans Through Education 08:57 "Veteran Hiring Resources in Ohio" 12:23 Helping Veterans Highlight Individual Contributions 13:16 Translating Military Skills for Jobs 16:48 Veteran Job Transition Challenges 20:02 Guiding Veterans in Corporate Growth 23:17 "Ohio Jobs for Veterans" 26:24 Military Transition Support Conversations 32:40 DoD SkillBridge: Transition Internship Program 35:34 Ohio's Economic and Military Development 39:44 "County Veteran Services: First Stop" 40:55 Shoutout to Murphy, Air Force Top takeaways for professionals, employers, and anyone passionate about supporting veterans: • Bridging the Employment Gap: Veterans often struggle to translate their military skills into civilian resumes. Programs like OhioMeansJobs Centers and Jobs Ohio’s "Find Your Ohio" initiative are connecting veterans with job resources and employers—sometimes before they even separate from the service. • Supporting Underemployed Veterans: While veteran unemployment rates are typically low, underemployment remains a concern. Employers and workforce agencies are collaborating to ensure vets find roles that match their skill sets and leadership experience—not just a quick paycheck. • Empowering Through Local & National Resources: Ohio offers veteran services offices in every county, and there’s an abundance of government and nonprofit support for veterans and their families. The key? Knowing where to look and leveraging those resources—from federal Small Business Administration support to local mentorship and networking programs. 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 a href="https://my.captivate.fm/www.channel511.com"...

    43 min
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4.2
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

We feature expert guests who provide real-world insights, inspiration, and resources, making each episode a valuable touchpoint for adults. You can expect to hear us discuss a wide range of topics, including employment and entrepreneurship, financial advice, legal issues, technology, healthy living, housing, and much more. New episodes are released twice a month. You can also sign up for our free newsletter, access additional resources, or contact the hosts directly at hello@lookingforwardourway.com. If you’re interested in joining a supportive community, learning from experts, and staying ahead of important trends and issues, tune in and subscribe today! The podcast is co-hosted by veteran and award-winning podcasters Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson.

Information

  • Creator
    Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    153
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
  • Show Website
    Looking Forward Our Way