Looking Forward Our Way

Meeting the Needs of Delaware County’s Growing Older Adult Population with SourcePointWe talk with Fara Waugh. Chief Executive Officer, LISW-S, CEO of SourcePoint, to explore how Delaware County, Ohio, is innovating to meet the needs of its rapidly growing population of older adults.As the county’s senior population doubles, SourcePoint stands out by offering a broad spectrum of services—from in-home care and Meals on Wheels to robust community programs and resource navigation—ensuring older adults remain independent, connected, and thriving.With funding structures, caregiver challenges, and the digital divide in focus, this episode looks at the everyday issues facing seniors, the critical importance of local support, and what the future holds for aging in the community.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’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Delaware County’s Unique Growth - Find out why Delaware County stands out as its population 65+ has doubled since 2010—and what that means for community services.SourcePoint’s Spectrum of Services - From Meals on Wheels and transportation to arts classes and caregiver support, get the inside scoop on how SourcePoint helps older adults live life to the fullest.The Realities of Caregiving - Hear honest stories about caregiver challenges, the “crisis point,” and why having the right information early can make all the difference.How Funding Shapes Services - Learn how federal, state, and most importantly, local levy dollars keep programs like SourcePoint running—and what happens when that funding is at risk.Bridging the Digital Divide - Discover how technology—and the lack thereof—affects independence, social connection, and access to services for older adults.1. What services does SourcePoint offer for older adults in Delaware County?SourcePoint provides a wide range of services for older adults including in-home care (such as Meals on Wheels, personal care, homemaking, and medical transportation), community programs like fitness and wellness classes, caregiver support, creative arts, educational workshops, and Medicare guidance.2. How is SourcePoint funded?SourcePoint is primarily funded through a local property tax levy in Delaware County, which makes up 75% to 80% of its overall funding. Additional support comes from federal and state funds, grants, donations, service fees, and volunteer support.3. Who can use SourcePoint’s services?Services are targeted to adults aged 55 and older in Delaware County, as well as their caregivers. Many programs begin with a needs assessment to create a personalized care plan and connect individuals or families with appropriate resources.4. How can I contact SourcePoint for help or information?You can call SourcePoint, visit their website, or drop in to connect with community resource navigators for guidance and support related to aging services.5. Are there opportunities to volunteer or work with SourcePoint?Yes. SourcePoint relies on dedicated volunteers, especially for programs like Meals on Wheels, and offers opportunities for community members to get involved, starting as volunteers or interns and sometimes leading to employment.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] 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 2026 Carol Ventresca and Brett JohnsonFull transcript & key moments from "SourcePoint":https://app.castmagic.io/share/Z99mtFMG7l17gNjyMentioned in this episode:Listener DisclaimerThe 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.

How Values Shape Financial Success with Ben HoegerIn this episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we talk with Ben Hoeger, financial advisor and Director of Private Wealth Management at the Hedley Hoeger Group at Baird Private Wealth Management. Ben provides practical advice on navigating the often intimidating world of financial planning, especially during turbulent economic times.We begin by celebrating Ben’s team’s recent recognition by Forbes and Shook Research as a best-in-state wealth management team—a testament to their teamwork and dedication. Ben shares some of his own journey into this field, shaped by his education at Otterbein and early career experiences that focused not just on investments, but on supporting people through life’s twists and turns.Ben explains the key questions to ask when choosing a financial advisor, emphasizing the importance of understanding an advisor’s process, communication style, and compensation. More critically, he highlights the personal side of financial planning: finding a relationship rooted in trust and genuine interest in your life, not just your money.We walk through what it’s like to become a new client—starting with conversations around personal values and goals long before crunching numbers. Ben underlines how effective financial planning is built on clarity around what matters most to you, so decisions during life’s expected and unexpected changes always circle back to those core values.Our conversation covers techniques for balancing savings for near-term needs, emergencies, and longer-term goals, using a “bucket” approach to risk and time horizons. We also round out the discussion by addressing how tools like artificial intelligence fit into the advisor-client relationship, and why the human touch remains irreplaceable.Ben introduces the Life Planning Initiative at his firm, which supports clients’ broader well-being—not just their balance sheets—and leaves us with wise advice: align your financial strategy with your values for a more fulfilling journey ahead.If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!Moments00:00 Discovering a passion for finance06:40 Choosing the right team expertise08:58 Building lasting client relationships11:01 Discussing financial advisor background checks15:15 Discussing personal financial motivations19:25 Importance of financial goals23:22 Using the bucketing approach24:39 Discussing investment risk strategies27:45 Aligning risk tolerance with guidance31:56 AI and Social Security advice35:03 Finding purpose beyond retirement38:04 Aligning investments with personal valuesFAQ1. What should I ask a financial advisor in my first meeting?According to Ben Hoeger at 06:06, you should ask about their process, the type of clients they typically serve, how and how often they communicate, their investment philosophy, and critically, how they get paid. It's also important to ensure their approach aligns with your needs and that you feel comfortable and can trust them.2. How do I start working with a financial advisor?Ben Hoeger explains at 12:51 that the process usually starts with an introductory conversation focused on getting to know each other and discussing your motivations for seeking financial advice, rather than diving into numbers right away. The next steps typically involve discussing your values, vision, and goals before moving on to financial details.5. How do I check a financial advisor's background or credentials?At 11:01, Ben Hoeger recommends reviewing a financial advisor's "U4" report, which documents their work history, licenses, and any complaints. This is an essential part of doing your due diligence before entrusting someone with your finances.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] 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 2026 Carol Ventresca and Brett JohnsonMentioned in this episode:Listener DisclaimerThe 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.

If you’re leading a business or organization and want to separate marketing myth from practical strategy, this conversation will give you the clarity—and courage—to build real momentum for growth.We sit down with returning guest Darlene Ziebell—an accomplished entrepreneur, business consultant, strategy specialist, and multi-book author—to unpack the real story behind successful marketing for small businesses.As business owners face rising costs, dwindling customer bases, and mounting challenges, the temptation to lean on marketing as a quick fix has never been stronger. But is throwing money at the latest digital tools or platforms really the answer?Darlene Ziebell draws on more than 30 years of experience, from founding her own seven and eight-figure companies to consulting for both startups and Fortune 1000 giants, to reveal why most companies struggle—not from lack of effort, but from missing strategic alignment.In this episode, you’ll hear why marketing works best as an integrated ecosystem, not just a checklist of trending tactics; how vanity metrics can lead you astray; and the critical difference between having a real business strategy and chasing every shiny new marketing object.Darlene Ziebell also shares lessons from her own clients, explains the pitfalls of the “post and hope” approach, and outlines the foundational questions every owner must answer before investing in marketing.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:Strategy First: Marketing tools are just tools—not miracles. Without a foundational business strategy, even the best marketing is just expensive noise. (15:19)Measure What Matters: Forget likes and hits—focus on leads, conversions, customer acquisition costs, and revenue. Everything else is just noise. (12:00)Narrow Your Niche: Don’t fear choosing your target market. Trying to sell everything to everyone guarantees failure. It’s leaders who define their lane and stick to it that win. (16:12)Moments04:24 Entrepreneurship and business consulting experience07:45 Using tools to drive impact11:03 Starting in podcast consultancy13:44 MBA insights for small business17:39 Knowing your customer21:37 Rebuilding marketing foundations25:26 Smart money decisions early29:01 Misinformation and fake social media stats31:36 The importance of business strategy33:26 Getting rejected early onWe 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] 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/Mentioned in this episode:Listener DisclaimerThe 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.

Hear insights that will help you navigate the ups and downs of your professional life, strengthen your self-confidence, and embrace the winding paths your career might take.Brett Johnson and Carol Ventresca are joined by Ken Lazar, CEO of Ability Professional Network and a seasoned recruiter in the community. They talk about today's challenging employment environment—covering everything from the emotional pitfalls facing both job seekers and employees, to how self-doubt, fear of rejection, and age discrimination can impact our professional lives.Together, they explore the complexities of finding and keeping a job in an era marked by rapid changes in technology, evolving workplace expectations, and shifting definitions of career success.With stories from Ken Lazar's extensive experience, practical advice on overcoming setbacks, and a candid discussion on the role of emotional intelligence at work, this episode promises advice, encouragement, and a reminder that every career journey is full of surprises—and opportunities worth pursuing.Top 3 takeaways:Your career path isn’t always linear (and that’s OK!) - Every career is a “challenge of building the right skills.” Embrace the twists and turns — they’re opportunities to learn, grow, and reinvent.Self-confidence comes from more than your job title - As Ken emphasizes, we’re not solely defined by our occupation. Focusing on a variety of goals — professional, personal, physical, and spiritual — builds a well-rounded sense of value and direction.Own your story and share it with the world - Putting your intentions “out in the universe” isn’t just about networking — it’s about convincing yourself first, then finding the right opportunities (sometimes in the most surprising places!).If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!Moments00:00 Career Journey in Staffing Industry03:12 "Starting Ability Professional Network"08:15 "Empowering Older Job Seekers"12:14 "Finding Purpose in Encore Careers"14:28 Perceptions of Age Discrimination18:23 Unclear Job Descriptions Problem20:44 "Recruiter-Hiring Manager Collaboration"23:13 "Versatile AI Applications Explained"27:23 "Sharing Feelings Builds Strength"29:30 Managing Post-Meeting Emotional Upsets33:35 "Courage to Challenge Comfort"36:24 "Decisions Require Full Context"43:04 "Defining Goals Beyond Occupation"44:20 "Create and Inspire Others"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] 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 Johnsonhttps://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 DisclaimerThe 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 anticipating a move, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for ways to give back, this conversation is filled with practical tips, community resources, and inspiring stories about how ordinary items can turn a house into a home of hope.Welcome to "Looking Forward Our Way." In this episode, hosts Brett Johnson and Carol Ventresca discuss the sometimes daunting topic of downsizing, a reality many of us face when life changes require a new living situation.Packing, moving, and deciding what to do with cherished possessions can be overwhelming, but there’s a compassionate alternative you might not know about.Joining them is Phil Washburn, President and CEO of The Furniture Bank of Central Ohio. Phil shares insights into "Downsizing with a Heart," a social enterprise program designed to ease the transition by handling donations and disposal, all while funding the Furniture Bank’s mission to help families in need.Together, they unravel the emotional and logistical challenges of downsizing and highlight the impact of furniture donations—not just on donors, but also on thousands of families rebuilding their lives.You'll hear wisdom, compassion, and actionable advice from the heart of Central Ohio’s nonprofit community.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 our conversation:Holistic Downsizing Support: Downsizing with a Heart simplifies the process by offering a one-stop solution for donation and disposal. Their team works directly with clients to assess items, manage the labor, and ensure everything is handled respectfully.Meaningful Donations Make an Impact: The Furniture Bank prioritizes high-need items like sofas, beds, and dressers. Every donation helps local families in transition and keeps furniture out of landfills, giving your household items a second life.Planning Ahead Reduces Stress: The best advice? Start early! Phil emphasized the importance of planning ahead to make downsizing less overwhelming—helping both those moving and the relatives who might handle estate cleanouts.Moments00:00 "Adapting Through Business Challenges"03:05 "Streamlined Downsizing & Donations"07:16 "Streamlined Donation and Disposal Help"10:48 Realtors' Decluttering Recommendations13:21 "Collaborative Support in Columbus"18:04 Stress-Free Estate Cleanout Assistance21:06 Downsizing: Plan Ahead, Reduce Stress24:49 "Creative Tools and Time Surplus"29:03 Team Building Through Furniture Volunteering32:40 "Homes of Hope: Furnished Housing"35:15 "Annual Bed Race Fun Event"37:05 "Start Ahead, Step Forward"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] 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.Copyright 2026 Carol Ventresca and Brett JohnsonMentioned in this episode:Listener DisclaimerThe 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.