Best Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson Podcasts (2025)

1
Understanding Your Ohio Utility Bills and Rights 41:28

12d ago41:28

41:28

Here’s the heart of this episode in a nutshell: This “Looking Forward Our Way” episode is all about helping Ohioans make sense of their utility bills and understand their rights as utility customers. We sit down with Kathryn Metz from the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC)—basically the state’s watchdog and advocate for regular folks when it comes to ut…

1
Strengthening Communities Through The Columbus Metropolitan Library 55:25

26d ago55:25

55:25

The Library Reimagined: "We're really talking about, how our library serves a diverse array of customer needs and in in different spaces and places. So that may not be just checking out a book in a branch, but what's the web presence? Right? What's what's the website like? How do we connect with this really growing area of usage with electronic con…

1
Tackling Ohio’s Rising Property Taxes with State Senator Bill DeMora 57:18

1M ago57:18

57:18

"Tax Fairness for Homeowners": "We need to keep senior citizens in their homes or disabled folks or veterans so they get to keep their homes by doing something for the property taxes so they don't get taxed out of their houses." - State Senator Bill DeMora In this episode, we look into the pressing issue of the housing crisis and its impact on prop…

1
The STEM Leadership Center: A Hub for Girl Scouts and Community Learning 44:52

2M ago44:52

44:52

In this episode we welcome back Tammy Wharton, President and CEO of Girl Scouts of Ohio's Heartland, to give an update on the Dream Big initiative and the new STEM Leadership Center at Camp Ken-Jockety. Tammy shares the excitement surrounding the opening of the building and its functional purpose, emphasizing that it serves not only the girls but a…

1
How Emotional Intelligence Can Transform Your Retirement Journey 1:01:20

2M ago1:01:20

1:01:20

Facing Retirement: "But isn't it interesting that once you retire, as we call it, right, and you leave that organization...you're faced with that "what am I gonna do now?" Well, what do I wanna do? Well, you haven't thought about it because remember, those thirty years, they were spent all about the organization, all about the next career move, the…

1
Building An Encore Career AND Supporting Community 1:05:01

3M ago1:05:01

1:05:01

Rethinking Retirement: "People now look at that phase of life after you leave your career, 65 or older, could be 55 or older, as an opportunity to live life differently than you have before." Mark Matson We sit down and talk with Mark Matson about transitioning into new phases of life and building a rewarding encore career while giving back to the …

1
Defending Your Identity: Strategies Against Hacks and Scams 52:40

3M ago52:40

52:40

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 a…

1
VOICECorps An Essential Service For Individuals With Visual Impairments in Ohio 49:54

3M ago49:54

49:54

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 s…

1
What You Need to Know about Inherited IRAs with Schraeder Law 40:22

4M ago40:22

40:22

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 Retir…

1
Tips for Entrepreneurs: Getting Started with Local Resources and Networking 31:24

4M ago31:24

31:24

"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. Emphasiz…

1
Strategies for Entrepreneurial Success: Tips from Ohio's Business Experts 16:04

5M ago16:04

16:04

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 c…

1
Reflecting on Five Years: A Year-End Message from Looking Forward Our Way 15:15

5M ago15:15

15:15

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 f…

1
Recovering Financially After a Spouse Passes Away 50:40

6M ago50:40

50:40

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 ins…

1
COAAA Advisory Council 29:19

6M ago29:19

29:19

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. Gran…

1
The $100 Million Investment Revolutionizing Ohio's Future Workforce 1:13:11

6M ago1:13:11

1:13:11

"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…

1
The Value of Veterans in the Civilian Workforce 45:52

7M ago45:52

45:52

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 ve…

1
How League of Women Voters Fights for Fair Elections and Campaign Transparency 1:10:05

7M ago1:10:05

1:10:05

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 fi…

1
2024 Medicare Open Enrollment: Essential Updates and Cost-Saving Tips 55:43

8M ago55:43

55:43

In this episode, we are joined by Josh Kinzel from Seniority Benefit Group to discuss key changes and updates for Medicare Open Enrollment 2024, highlighting how these alterations might impact current and prospective enrollees. Josh Kinzel brings 18 years of experience, with a focus on Medicare for the past 16 years. He assists individuals with the…

1
LinkUS – COTA - Issue #47 45:04

8M ago45:04

45:04

Are you curious about how Central Ohio plans to evolve its transportation network to support future growth? MORPC leads strategic transportation planning and coordinates the allocation of federal transportation dollars to local governments. Our guest, Maria Schaper, is the Transportation Study Director at the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (…

1
Using AI Tools for Job Applications: Worth It or Not? 48:17

9M ago48:17

48:17

We are joined by career expert Sharon Hamersly to discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) can be a crucial tool in the modern job search, while also emphasizing its limitations and the critical role of human input. **Crutch Words in AI Writing** A common issue with AI-generated content: the over-reliance on generic phrases and crutch words such as…

1
Emergency Preparedness: Insights from Greater Columbus Chapter of the American Red Cross 54:13

9M ago54:13

54:13

**Disaster Preparedness**: "If we are separated and a disaster occurs, where's our meeting place a little bit away? Right? Where are those 2 or 3 meeting places in the 20 mile radius, 50 mile radius, where we know that you're gonna be if I can't reach you." — Cory Paul We welcome Cory Paul, the Executive Director of the Greater Columbus Chapter of …

1
Building Resources for an Aging Community 57:04

10M ago57:04

57:04

Aging Population Boom: "There will be more seniors than there are kindergarteners by 2030." — Chanda Wingo We're thrilled to have Chanda Wingo, Director of the Franklin County Office on Aging. She shares insights on an innovative blueprint aimed at understanding the impact of an aging community and guiding local stakeholders in allocating necessary…

1
Leveling The Playing Field Ohio: A World With No Sidelines 38:00

10M ago38:00

38:00

"They can grab a cart, grab a clipboard, and essentially go shopping free of charge for whatever they need to support their program."— Eric Rutkowski We welcome Eric Rutkowski, the program director for Leveling The Playing Field Ohio. Eric shares his inspiring mission to support youth sports across Ohio by ensuring that programs in Columbus, Clevel…

1
Digital Estates: How to Handle Your Online Presence After You're Gone 23:51

10M ago23:51

23:51

Consolidating Accounts and Legal Risks: "I think the biggest risk would be for the financial accounts because the person that does know the password that is the key to the kingdom may not understand where their control starts and where their authority ends, And just because they know the password to that bank account doesn't mean that the dollars s…

1
The World of Work for 55+ Jobseekers 47:35

11M ago47:35

47:35

We have a special announcement: Employment Forward Seniors, a casualty of the pandemic, now finds a new home under the New Directions Career Center as Mature Works. Joining us are experts Kat Yamaguchi and Jami Phillips from New Directions Career Center. With rich backgrounds in nonprofit program development and job seeker support, they share insig…

1
Combatting Age Discrimination in Hiring and Retention 1:01:50

11M ago1:01:50

1:01:50

The episode focuses on the challenges and solutions associated with ageism in the workplace, particularly concerning mature adults. With insights from experts Dr. Phillip Taylor and Dr. Phyllis Cummins, the discussion explores the importance of addressing age discrimination, rethinking job roles for older workers, and the benefits of intergeneratio…

1
The Magic of a Reboot and other Tech Tips 45:28

12M ago45:28

45:28

We are joined by tech experts Andy Landrum and Alex West from Nice Guy Technology. We dive into the importance of rebooting your computer, the crucial practice of backing up data, and the precautions you should take with USB drives. Andy and Alex share insights from their rich background, offering practical advice on diagnosing tech problems and di…

1
The SOAP Project 45:18

12M ago45:18

45:18

In this episode, we look into a harrowing yet crucial topic—human trafficking. Joined by our special guest Theresa Flores, the founder of The SOAP Project, we explore the intricacies of combating this pervasive issue. Theresa, a survivor of human trafficking herself, shares her profound insights and the impactful work being done by her organization…

1
The Impact of The Garden For All on Food Insecurity 27:36

1y ago27:36

27:36

Garden For All blossoms with hope and inspiration as we explore the fertile ground of food security efforts led by our expert guest, Beth NeCamp, the executive director of Garden For All. Amidst the thorns of food insecurity, The Garden For All sprouted as a beacon of nourishment and education during the pandemic, founded by the compassionate duo, …

1
Ben Hoeger on the Power of Financial Preparedness 56:44

1y ago56:44

56:44

Ben Hoeger, Director, Private Wealth Management – Baird, shares valuable advice on building a strong financial foundation. Hoeger stresses the critical role of referrals in selecting reliable financial advisors and advocates for a meaningful, almost friendly relationship with them for a successful long-term partnership. We discuss the shift from re…

1
The Impact of MORPC's Mobility Plan 52:14

1y ago52:14

52:14

In this episode of "Looking Forward Our Way," hosts Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson sit down with guest Emma Strange, the mobility coordinator for the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC). The episode covers MORPC's role in developing a comprehensive regional mobility plan for Ohio's Department of Transportation's Human Service Transport…

1
Inside Otterbein's Lifelong Learning Community Program 36:35

1y ago36:35

36:35

In this episode of "Looking Forward Our Way," the focus is on the opportunities for lifelong learning in Central Ohio and the specific Lifelong Learning Community (LLC) program at Otterbein University. Hosts Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson are joined by guest experts Dana Viglietta, the executive director of engagement at Otterbein University, an…

1
Mastering Business Turnarounds: Strategies from Darlene Ziebell 58:53

1y ago58:53

58:53

On this episode of "Looking Forward Our Way," hosts Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson welcome expert Darlene Ziebell to share her strategies for turning around failing businesses and to dive into the challenges small business owners face. Darlene Ziebell, a seasoned strategist and consultant, begins by discussing the critical process of assessing a…

1
The Ohio State University's Gerontology and Geriatrics Initiatives 55:44

1y ago55:44

55:44

In this episode of "Looking Forward Our Way," hosts Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson welcome Jennifer Bechtel, the program manager for geriatrics and gerontology at Ohio State University's College of Medicine. The discussion focuses on the challenges and opportunities in the field of gerontology, navigating healthcare for aging populations, empowe…

1
Own Your Career, with Expert Guest Sharon Hamersley 38:05

1+ y ago38:05

38:05

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

1
Age Friendly Innovation Center: Building Services and Support Networks 36:34

1+ y ago36:34

36:34

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

1
Ohio's Workforce Evolution and Opportunities Ahead 29:58

1+ y ago29:58

29:58

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

1
Signal Ohio is Bridging News Deserts and Fueling Civic Empowerment 51:28

1+ y ago51:28

51:28

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

1
New Year Job Search Tips from HR Experts 37:18

1+ y ago37:18

37:18

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

1
New Year New Things to Come 4:53

1+ y ago4:53

4:53

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

1
The Central Ohio Affordable Housing Crisis 1:03:07

1+ y ago1:03:07

1:03:07

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

1
Helping Older Ohioans Continue to Drive 49:26

1+ y ago49:26

49:26

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

1
Jamming, Bonding, and Rocking On: School of Rock Columbus Builds Community through Music 48:51

1+ y ago48:51

48:51

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

1
Through the Camera's Eye: Documenting the Stories of World War II Veterans 48:47

1+ y ago48:47

48:47

We sit down with guest Ed Zirkle, a veteran and photographer. Ed begins by sharing that his involvement with a TED Talk on PTSD has led him to conduct extensive background research on the topic. He emphasizes that PTSD affects only a small percentage of people, particularly veterans, and is often considered an invisible wound. Ed's primary goal is …

1
Thrills, Chills, and Dinner with Get Away With Murder 32:10

1+ y ago32:10

32:10

We are joined by guest Mark Seven, Owner, Producer, Director of Get Away With Murder, a traveling improv mystery comedy dinner theatre. The episode begins by acknowledging the struggle that theaters and entertainment venues face in terms of declining attendance and difficulty in marketing to their regular customers. One potential reason for this de…

1
Medicaid Myths Debunked with Schraeder Law 36:48

1+ y ago36:48

36:48

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

1
Making Informed Choices for Medicare Open Enrollment with Josh Kinzel 49:59

1+ y ago49:59

49:59

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

1
How We CAN Afford To Feed Healthy Pet Food with Fangs & Fur 49:23

1+ y ago49:23

49:23

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

1
2023 Property Tax Reappraisal Process with Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano 38:21

2y ago38:21

38:21

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

1
Protecting Your Digital Identity: Dark Web Insights with Nice Guy Technology 40:09

2y ago40:09

40:09

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

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Carol Ventresca And Brett Johnson Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen