Looking Forward Our Way

Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

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. HACE 20 H

    Honoring Veterans: Inside the National Veterans Memorial and Museum with Colonel Bill Butler

    Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, an educator, or simply someone interested in history and service, this episode offers a profound look at the enduring legacy of America’s veterans—and the power of storytelling to unite and inspire us all. Welcome to Looking Forward Our Way! In this special episode, hosts Brett Johnson and Carol Ventresca take us inside the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) in Columbus, Ohio, for an inspiring conversation with Colonel Bill Butler, U.S. Army (Retired), and president of the museum. As November marks a time to honor and reflect on the sacrifices of our nation’s service members, Colonel Butler shares his remarkable 27-year military journey, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and the unique challenges veterans face as they transition to civilian life. Together, they talk about the creation and vision of the NVMM—America’s first museum dedicated to telling the stories of veterans from all branches and eras, through both war and peace. Colonel Butler sheds light on the museum’s four guiding pillars: Honor, Connect, Inspire, and Educate, and highlights how individual stories take center stage. The discussion explores the building’s symbolic design, its role in revitalizing Columbus’s west side, and the diverse permanent and temporary exhibits that bring the lived experiences of veterans to life. Here are 3 key takeaways from our conversation: Veteran Stories Matter: NVMM uniquely focuses on individual veterans—their backgrounds, motivations, and legacies—not simply on military campaigns. Visitors gain new understanding of service through exhibits that spotlight real people and their post-service lives.A Hub for Community & Healing: The museum serves as a safe, welcoming place for veterans and their families to connect, reflect, and share experiences—often for the first time. Events like the Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home ceremony offer healing, validation, and genuine community support.Education & Engagement for All Ages: Beyond exhibits, NVMM offers resources for educators, interactive programs for students, and special events (like Daniel the Tiger meet-and-greets!) to inspire future generations and foster a deeper appreciation for service. 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 "Childhood Adventures to Military Interest" 07:09 Military Service Commitment Decisions 14:48 John Glenn Inspires Vets' Renovation 19:20 Veteran Experience and Community Connection 24:19 Veterans' Journey and Experience Exhibit 27:28 Vietnam Veterans Day Welcome Ceremony 38:11 Diverse Faces of Military Service 42:45 Honoring Veterans' Stories Program 47:06 "Veteran-Inspired Art Exhibits" 52:53 Educational Veterans Interview Programs 57:19 Community-Focused National Museum 01:01:59 Veterans' Stories and Partnerships 01:06:48 Passion for Veterans and Lifelong Learning 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...

    1 h y 10 min

  2. 20 OCT

    Encore Careers and Public Service: A Conversation with Whitehall Mayor Kim Maggard

    We sit down with former Whitehall Mayor Kim Maggard for an engaging and insightful conversation about her impressive journey in public service, community leadership, and what lies ahead in her own encore career. From her early days working in librarianship and education to her breakthrough moment mobilizing the community for important school levies, Kim shares how her adaptability, collaborative spirit, and commitment to transparency shaped her political path. She talks about the often-unseen challenges of city leadership—including managing through crises like the opioid epidemic and COVID-19—while tackling issues like economic development, diversity, and housing in Whitehall. Kim also opens up about what true leadership looks like, the importance of strong community partnerships, and advice for both aspiring public servants and anyone searching for a meaningful encore career. Whether you’re curious about navigating career transitions, passionate about public service, or interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of local politics, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and heartfelt stories. Stay tuned and get ready to look forward—our way! 3 key takeaways: Leadership is Vision + Empathy: True leaders communicate their vision, listen to all voices (including naysayers!), and never forget that they serve their community first.Resilience in the Face of Challenge: Whether navigating the uncertainties of COVID-19, addressing housing and opioid crises, or driving infrastructure improvements, Kim showed that challenges can be the most energizing part of public service.Encore Careers Start with Openness: As Kim transitions beyond the mayor’s office, she stresses the importance of patience, volunteerism, and openness to new opportunities—your experience always has value, regardless of age or title. 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 From Librarian to Political Career 08:48 Pursuing Education and Public Service 15:12 Effective Vision and Community Upgrades 16:48 Promoting Homeownership and Community Pride 24:00 Whitehall Fire and Police Appreciation 27:31 Value of Hometown and Safety 34:14 Infrastructure: Slow Build, Quick Progress 41:08 Successful School Levy Campaign 48:48 Exploring Volunteer Opportunities 50:01 Uncovering Value in Encore Careers 01:00:57 Expert Insights with Kim Maggard 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 a href="https://my.captivate.fm/www.circle270media.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1 h y 3 min

  3. 6 OCT

    What’s New in the 2026 Medicare Enrollment

    We welcome back Josh Kinzel from Seniority Benefit Group for his sixth visit to the podcast. The focus of this conversation is on the upcoming changes to Medicare enrollment and coverage for 2026, as well as practical advice for those approaching or currently navigating Medicare options. Breaking Down the Medicare Alphabet Soup Josh walks us through the parts of Medicare and why understanding them is so important: Original Medicare includes Part A (hospitalization, generally free) and Part B (outpatient coverage, with a monthly premium).Original Medicare typically covers 80% of approved costs, but there’s no out-of-pocket cap for the leftover 20%. That’s where the choice between a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan and a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan comes in.Medigap fills in gaps left by Original Medicare—giving simplicity and freedom to see almost any provider accepting Medicare. You add on a Part D drug plan for prescriptions.Medicare Advantage plans are administered by private insurance companies. The government pays these companies on your behalf, so the advertised zero-premium plans are real—but always remember, your Part B premium still applies. With Advantage, you’re often in an HMO or PPO network, may have to seek pre-approval for some services, and pay more out of pocket if major health issues arise. What’s New for Medicare in 2026? As usual, we’re recording before all federal rules are final, but here’s what we know: Part B premiums are expected to rise by about 11%, reaching an estimated $206.50 monthly.Part D drug plan costs may inch up, mainly as insurers adjust to the new $2,000 annual out-of-pocket limit (from the Inflation Reduction Act). While deductibles and catastrophic thresholds rise, costs for many drugs, especially for diabetes, are actually dropping.The infamous “donut hole” coverage gap is now virtually gone, making prescription coverage simpler.Talk continues about longer-term Part D and Advantage contracts (potentially covering more than one year) and the introduction of more pre-authorization (prior approval) steps, including the use of AI to address fraud and control costs. Medicare Advantage and the “Free” Plan Question A recurring theme is whether Medicare Advantage’s free or low-cost plans are really “free.” Josh explains that these plans are genuinely $0 premium because the government subsidizes them, but you’ll still pay the Part B premium, plus out-of-pocket costs when you use services. The trade-off is less predictability, more restrictions on doctor/hospital networks, and a risk of higher costs if you need significant care. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! MyCare Ohio: A New Managed Care Option for Dual Eligibles We explore MyCare Ohio, a managed care model that combines Medicaid and Medicare benefits for those who qualify for both. Expanding to all 88 counties in Ohio, this program promises consolidation, fewer cards to carry, and—potentially—lower out-of-pocket costs for those with low income and assets. Eligibility, plan availability, and making sure your doctors are in-network are important considerations. How Employers and Retirees Fit In For people who are still working at 65 or have retiree health coverage, we emphasize comparing employer plans with Medicare options—never simply assuming your current coverage is best. Employers can use experts like Josh’s group to help employees or retirees make smart,...

    50 min

  4. 29 SEP

    Preserving Senior Stories: How The Legacy Project Bridges Generations

    We sit down with Arielle Galinsky, CEO and co-founder of The Legacy Project Incorporated. Arielle is not only a dual-degree graduate student at Yale Law and Harvard's Kennedy School, but she’s also a passionate advocate for intergenerational connections and storytelling. The Legacy Project, which now spans 25 college campuses, began from Arielle’s personal drive to preserve the life stories of older adults—a mission fueled by loss in her own family and a desire to bridge the gap between generations. In our conversation, Arielle shares how the Legacy Project grew from high school interviews to a fast-growing nonprofit, the challenges of launching a student-led organization, and the critical importance of including young people in conversations about aging. Together, we explore the power of sharing life stories across generations, how college students are building bonds with seniors, and why these connections matter more than ever in today’s world. You'll hear inspiring insights, learn practical ways to get involved, and gain a vision for the future of intergenerational engagement in communities everywhere. 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: Intergenerational Connections are Powerful: The Legacy Project is growing across 25+ college campuses, pairing students with seniors to record life stories. Both seniors and students consistently find value in these relationships, breaking down age-related stereotypes and fostering mutual learning. Storytelling as Civic Engagement: Arielle emphasized that sharing stories isn't just "feel good" work—it's a tool for combating social isolation, reducing ageism, and even driving community change. The project is now launching an Intergenerational Changemakers fellowship to encourage civic collaborations across ages. Opportunities & Resources Abound: From forming campus chapters to collaborating with local senior communities and national organizations like Generations United, there are so many ways to get involved. Whether you're a student, educator, or community member, resources and guidance are available to help you create or join an intergenerational initiative. Moments 00:00 Shaping Long-Term Care Policy 04:44 "Intergenerational Storytelling Legacy Project" 08:24 Legacy Project Integration in Coursework 11:55 Conference Sparks Growth in Aging Services 15:05 "Mutual Benefits of Generational Ties" 18:36 Growing Industry: Services for Seniors 20:02 Shift from Recruitment to Expansion 24:37 Podcast Resource on Legacy Project 25:54 Youth Caregivers Face Unique Challenges 30:27 "Intergenerational Change Makers" Initiative 32:17 "Fostering Multigenerational Community Dialogue" 38:21 Live an Intergenerational Lifestyle 39:21 "Embrace Life's Stories" 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...

    42 min

  5. 15 SEP

    How Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio Provides Free Medicine to Those in Need

    The Unsung Heroes of Healthcare: "Community pharmacists are maybe the most trusted and most accessible health care provider. They're unsung heroes in our communities but rich with knowledge." - Dr. Taylor ReedWe shine a spotlight on a vital resource in Central Ohio: the Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio. For 15 years, this nonprofit has been dedicated to providing free, life-saving prescription medications to those who can’t afford them. Executive Director Dr. Taylor Reed joins the conversation to share his unique career path, the inspiring origin story of the charitable pharmacy, and how the organization serves the community. Especially older adults and those with chronic health needs. We’ll explore the challenges and partnerships that make this work possible, recent changes in Ohio law that allow even more donated medications to reach those in need, and how the pharmacy works hand-in-hand with patients, healthcare providers, and other social service organizations to address the full spectrum of patient wellness. If you or someone you know is struggling with medication costs, or if you’re interested in how you can help, this episode is packed with insights, resources, and ways to get involved. Here are 3 key takeaways for healthcare and community professionals: The Charitable Pharmacy was born from a unique Columbus-style public-private partnership that included city, county, all four major health systems, faith organizations, and business leaders. This cross-sector approach catalyzed innovative and lasting solutions for medication access in our region. Serving over 1,600 individuals annually, the pharmacy provides not just free medication but a holistic support model. Patients often face multiple chronic conditions, and pharmacists deliver ongoing education, coaching, and direct connections to broader health and social services. From state law changes enabling medication donations to partnerships with organizations like the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, the Charitable Pharmacy is addressing the social drivers of health, ensuring patients have food, housing, and transportation, not just medication. 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 Pharmacist's Career Journey 05:18 Launch of a Charitable Pharmacy 08:41 Complex Pharmacy Supply Chain Explained 09:43 Recycling Unused Medicine Program 13:04 Supporting Asset-Limited Employed Individuals 17:27 Collaborative Healthcare Connections Ohio 22:02 Community Support Through One Door 24:33 Addressing Health via Nutrition Access 29:31 Expanding Health Care Capacity 33:28 Community Pharmacy & Pharmacist Awareness 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 href="https://my.captivate.fm/www.lookingforwardourway.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    36 min

  6. 1 SEP

    A Workforce That Welcomes Older Adults

    Age Diversity in the Workplace: Benefits, Challenges, and Strategies for Employers In this episode of Looking Forward Our Way, Brett and Carol are joined by Dr. Jennifer Crittenden, Assistant Professor of Social Work at the University of Maine and Associate Director for Research at the University of Maine Center on Aging. The focus is on the challenges and opportunities facing older adults as they transition into paid employment, and particularly on how volunteerism can act as a bridge to help them re-enter the workforce. Dr. Crittenden began by sharing her background in gerontology and her early research in older adult volunteerism. She noticed a fascinating trend: some older volunteers were leaving their unpaid roles because they needed or wanted to return to paid employment. This observation set her on a research path to better understand how older adults juggle different responsibilities—such as caregiving, volunteering, and work—and whether skills gained in volunteer opportunities could support their move into paid roles. Through a study funded by AmeriCorps, Dr. Crittenden discovered that many older adults indeed use volunteer experiences as a stepping stone back into employment—even if the volunteer programs themselves weren’t specifically designed for that purpose. This realization led her and other researchers to ponder whether volunteerism could actually become a structured pathway to employment for seniors. Furthermore, her research highlighted the “spillover effect”: skills acquired through both in-person and virtual volunteering frequently enhanced other aspects of life, such as caregiving or community engagement. The partnership with AmeriCorps became more formalized when, in 2022, Dr. Crittenden’s center was approached to help study a new round of demonstration grants focusing on workforce development for older adults. This new initiative required participants to integrate volunteerism into their program design, with the ultimate goal of aiding older adults in securing sustainable employment. Seven different pilot programs across the country were set up, each distinct in its local approach but unified in combining volunteer experience, community service, training, mentorship, and employment support. What makes this research so groundbreaking is its focus on identifying the “secret recipe”—the common elements across all seven pilot programs that effectively support older adults’ transition to sustainable employment. The data, collected from over 150 participants in the first round, helps the researchers understand what motivates seniors, what keeps them engaged, and what drives successful placement into jobs. Looking at the demographics, the majority of participants were women (about 72%), which reflects broader trends in volunteerism. Most were between the ages of 60 and 70—prime years for retirement or semi-retirement—but the programs included participants up to 85. A striking finding was that many lived alone and were single, divorced, or widowed, implying a significant financial need to supplement single-income households. In terms of the nature of work, the positions targeted by these programs were generally paraprofessional roles—such as paralegals or early childhood educators—that often required participants to complete some form of certification or additional training. This requirement, while presenting barriers for some, helped others gain clear pathways into employment that matched their interests and skillsets. Motivation to participate in these programs was largely financial, but the data showed that earning new skills, having a sense of purpose, giving back to the community, and building social connections were also major drivers. This mirrors what we see among younger job seekers, emphasizing that these needs...

    42 min

  7. 18 AGO

    Medical Assistance and Legal Options for End-of-Life Care

    "And people kept saying to her, well, why don't we have something like that in Ohio? Why don't we have something like that in Ohio? And so she never intended to start a nonprofit organization, but she got enough feedback that people really wanted to have the option to at least start working on it." Molly McMahon Graziano - Director of Outreach for Ohio End of Life OptionsWe’re talking about the sensitive and essential topic of end-of-life options, an area many of us encounter as caregivers for family members, yet one that often leaves us searching for guidance and support. We sit down with two expert guests: Molly McMahon Graziano, Director of Outreach for Ohio End of Life Options, and Kathleen Carmody, owner of Senior Matters Home Health Care and Consulting, a certified death Doula and dementia practitioner. We explore the resources available for those facing terminal illness, clarify the distinctions between hospice and the evolving role of the death doula, and shed light on important legal and practical considerations. The episode also touches on the deeply personal nature of dying. And how, with the right knowledge and support, families can honor their loved ones’ wishes while navigating the challenging end-of-life journey. Whether you’re currently supporting someone at the end of life, considering how to start these tough conversations, or simply want to better understand the options available, this conversation offers practical insights, heartfelt stories, and a wealth of resources to help you plan with compassion and confidence. 3 Key Takeaways Death Doulas Offer Practical & Emotional Support: Unlike hospice, death doulas can provide around-the-clock, highly personalized care for both the patient and family, addressing everything from hands-on support to legacy planning and navigating the complex emotional landscape that comes with losing a loved one. Empowered Choices Begin with Conversation: States differ widely in what end-of-life options are available, but the most important tool is open dialogue. Family discussions, advance directives, and clear communication about wishes ensure loved ones’ preferences are heard and respected. Proactive Planning Makes the Hardest Times Easier: Start planning before a crisis. Resources like palliative care consults, practical tools (hello, Next of Kin boxes!), and organizations like Ohio End of Life Options and national groups (e.g., Compassion & Choices) are key to navigating care, easing burdens, and ensuring dignity for everyone involved. 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 "Founding Senior Matters Home Care" 06:51 "Dying with Dignity at Home" 07:33 Ohio End of Life Options Founded 11:13 Home Care's Role in End-of-Life 16:10 Support for Caregivers and Doulas 18:24 Prepared for Parental Loss 24:00 Advocating for Transparent Medical Information 28:33 "Encouraging Palliative Care Consultations" 32:28 "Clarifying U.S. Medical Aid Laws" 37:06 "Hospice Enrollment and Aid in Dying" 39:57 "Start Conversations on End-of-Life" 42:04 Planning Elder Care Options 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 a...

    46 min

  8. 4 AGO

    The Fran Ryan Center: Columbus’ New Creative Arts and Wellness Hub for All Ages

    We shine a spotlight on one of Columbus’s newest community treasures: The Fran Ryan Center. Opened in January 2025 as part of the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, this vibrant, creative arts and wellness hub sits just east of downtown and serves residents of all ages. We're joined by Kyle Farnbaugh, the center’s manager, who takes us inside the mission, innovative programs, and community partnerships that make the Fran Ryan Center unique. From state-of-the-art studios and intergenerational classes to its new role as the home of the beloved Golden Hobby Shop, the Fran Ryan Center is redefining what a community space can be. In our conversation, we’ll hear about Kyle’s fascinating journey into senior services, the center’s inclusive approach to arts and wellness, and how it’s creating opportunities for both new and established artists in Columbus. Plus, you’ll get an inside look at volunteer opportunities, special events, and the shop where over 300 consigners display handcrafted art. Whether you’re an artist, a supporter of community programs, or simply curious about new ways to get involved in Columbus, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical information. 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 episode: Inclusive, Intergenerational Programming The Fran Ryan Center stands out by intentionally welcoming both older and younger adults. We offer programs ranging from beginner to advanced, and are building more opportunities for families, friends, and neighbors of all ages to connect and create together. Affordable Access & Community Support Accessibility is a core value. The center’s programs are supported by Columbus city operational dollars, meaning fees remain low and flexible. We even offer reduced fees for older adults and ensure materials are provided to make arts participation possible for everyone. Golden Hobby Shop: A Senior Arts Marketplace Now in a permanent home at the Fran Ryan Center, the Golden Hobby Shop features over 335 senior artisans and relies on volunteer power to fuel its success. Consignors enjoy a supportive, well-run environment to display and sell their handmade works, enriching both their lives and the community. Moments 00:00 Senior Services Career Journey 05:45 "Voice Program Earns Top Honors" 08:06 Unique Offerings of Fran Rhine Center 10:35 "Fran Ryan Center Arts Studios" 13:50 Intergenerational Family Programming Model 19:15 Optimizing Class Costs and Lab Fees 20:01 "Lab Fee Range & Registration Info" 24:09 Volunteer Opportunities Available 27:43 Community Engagement at Fran Ryan Center 32:24 Senior-Only Consignment Program Process 34:34 Consignment Profit Split Model 36:34 "Columbus Souvenirs & Community Support" 40:14 "New Artist Residency Program Launched" 44:19 "Words of Wisdom & Community Tribute" 45:57 Progress Through Initiative 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 a href="https://www.facebook.com/lookingforwardourway/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    48 min
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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.

Información

  • Creador
    Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
  • Años de actividad
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodios
    145
  • Clasificación
    Apto
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
  • Mostrar sitio web
    Looking Forward Our Way

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