Looking Forward Our Way
Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
Recent Episodes
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 [email protected].
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/
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.
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 [email protected].
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/
Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
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.
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 [email protected].
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/
Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
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.
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 [email protected].
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/
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.
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, cost-effective choices.
Moments
00:00 "Pre-Enrollment Medicare Insights Podcast"
04:21 Career Shift to Medicare Benefits
08:04 Medicare Coverage Gaps Explained
12:05 Medicare Advantage: Weighing Options
13:38 Medicare Advantage vs. Traditional Debate
19:08 Insurance Bids May Extend Duration
21:00 Medicare Approves without Prior Authorization
24:39 Pharmacy Vaccine Billing Issues
27:16 Navigating Insurance Plan Limitations
29:39 Medicare Advantage vs. Traditional Medicare
33:18 Medicare Advantage's Financial Appeal
36:27 "MyCare Ohio: Enhanced Medicare Advantage"
40:08 Medicare.gov: Comprehensive Resource Guide
43:04 Transitioning from Benefits to Medicare
46:00 Retiree Benefits Under Scrutiny
We would love to hear from you.
Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.
Email us at [email protected].
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/
Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
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.