Looking Forward Our Way

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

Whether you’re passionate about the performing arts or curious about building community through creativity, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical ways to support and connect with the arts in Columbus.In this episode, hosts Brett Johnson and Carol Ventresca sit down with Christy Farnbaugh, executive director of the Contemporary Theatre of Ohio. Columbus has long been known for its vibrant arts community, and today, Christy shares her journey from Otterbein music major to arts administration leader, highlighting the importance of mentors, networks, and resilience in the arts.We explore the role of the Contemporary Theatre of Ohio—formerly CATCO—and its impact on local artists, education programs for kids, and community building. Christy reveals how the organization navigated a dramatic transformation during the pandemic, from rebranding to embracing virtual performances, and discusses the importance of intergenerational connections and producing timely, empathetic stories for Central Ohio.Moments00:00 "Christy's Theater Journey Unveiled"09:59 "Pursuing Passion Amid Challenges"15:49 "Career Paths and Connections"20:21 "Arts and Community Value Proposition"23:42 "Revamping Name and Brand Strategy"28:58 "Columbus Talent with Local Ties"33:13 "Kids' Anxiety Through Humor"39:25 "Pandemic, Laughter, and Aging Arts"44:40 Empowering Kids Through Writing51:34 "Zoom and Teams' Lasting Impact"58:46 "Diverse Plays for Columbus"01:00:13 "Primary Trust: Identity and Imagination"01:04:39 Volunteer Opportunities and Education InvolvementIf you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!Key Takeaways:The Power of Local Storytelling: The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio tells stories rooted in the current moment to build empathy, hiring local artists so the art created directly enriches our community.Building an Ecosystem, not Competition: Columbus boasts a unique arts ecosystem, where professional, community, and educational theaters work together to expand opportunities for artists, creators, and audiences.Arts as a Vehicle for Wellness & Growth: Whether through creative aging programs, anxiety-reducing children’s workshops, or supporting mentorship, theater provides pathways for well-being, social-emotional learning, and intergenerational connection.We would love to hear from you.Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.Email us at [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.

Happy New Year—and thank you for being part of the journey!As we celebrate the show’s sixth year—and nearly a decade since our very first podcast together—we pause to express heartfelt gratitude to you, our dedicated listeners. We discuss the rapid growth of podcasting among adults over 50, the importance of feedback and topic suggestions, and the exciting changes introduced this year—including a fresh logo and revamped newsletter.We share behind-the-scenes insights on building community connections, working with local experts, and the ongoing evolution of the podcast based on your input. Whether you’re a longtime fan or tuning in for the first time, we invite you to help shape the show’s future, keep the conversation lively, and look forward to even more engaging stories and interviews in the coming year. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!We would love to hear from you.Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.Email us at [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.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.

This episode of Looking Forward Our Way is a special one for us as we sit down with our good friend Kelly Fuller, Senior Vice President of Workforce and Workplace Innovation for the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. The conversation is bittersweet, as Kelly will be retiring from the chamber in early 2026. We’re grateful for her friendship and years of commitment to workforce development and Employment for Seniors in Central Ohio. Even though her chapter at the Chamber is coming to a close, we’re already thinking up future excuses for her to come back to the studio.We take a look at the major shifts the region has experienced—from the decline of manufacturing to the rise of sectors like healthcare, education, and professional services. Kelly shares insights from her own career journey, discusses the changing nature of work and the challenges businesses and workers face today, and explores critical issues like talent retention, the influence of new industries, and the ever-present need for adaptability in the job market. Plus, we don't shy away from discussing tough topics like affordable housing, evolving work environments, and what the future holds for both employers and job seekers.Whether you’re interested in the history of Central Ohio’s workforce, current labor market trends, or you just want some thoughtful career advice, this episode offers valuable wisdom—and a few laughs along the way.If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!Top TakeawaysAdaptability is EssentialOpportunities often arise unexpectedly, and developing transferable skills opens doors to new industries. Kelly herself found her path by leveraging teaching skills in training roles—a testament to staying curious and never pigeonholing yourself.Industry Evolution & Talent GapsManufacturing’s decline in workforce isn’t about lost opportunity—it’s about technological transformation. Central Ohio remains a hub for innovation, but companies and job seekers need to stay ahead by networking, continuously reskilling, and understanding shifting local labor statistics.People-Centric GrowthWhether you’re a business leader or a job hunter, the focus should be on building supportive environments. As Kelly emphasizes, investing in community, addressing housing, and embracing flexible work arrangements isn’t just good policy—it’s essential for attracting and retaining talent in an ever-changing landscape.Moments00:00 Workforce Development Retrospective03:14 Small-Town Roots, Workforce Journey08:02 Ohio's Evolving Manufacturing Landscape12:31 Healthcare Jobs Surge in Ohio14:58 Career Planning Challenges Ahead18:23 "Columbus Way: Balanced Economy Insights"22:24 Downtown Living and Housing Solutions24:50 "Remote Work's Impact and Pushback"29:38 Expanding Workforce & Talent Pipelines31:11 "Building Community-Focused Infrastructure"33:42 "Focus on Regional Strengths"39:31 People-Centric Growth and BelongingWe 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 Johnson 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.

The True Purpose of Prenups - "I think people think of prenuptial as Just planning for divorce. But all marriages end in one of two ways, divorce or death. And so where I find that some agreements fall short is in planning for the second scenario, whichever it is." - Larae SchraederLet’s be honest—talking about prenups with a partner, friend, or family member can feel uncomfortable and sticky. The conversation is often laced with worries about trust, fairness, and what it means for a relationship. That’s exactly why we felt it was important to bring clarity to this conversation. To help us do just that, we invited Larae Schraeder, an award-winning attorney from Schraeder Law, who specializes in estate planning, probate, and elder law. Larae brings a wealth of experience, with her background in both law and financial services, making her perspective especially valuable for this topic.We explore the ins and outs of prenups and postnups, why open conversations about finances are critical before tying the knot, and how these legal documents can go far beyond just preparing for divorce. From protecting children and business interests to navigating new changes in Ohio law, this episode is packed with practical advice and personal stories to help couples (and their families) prepare for whatever the future may hold. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!5 Keys You’ll Learn from This Episode:Why talking finances before marriage is a must—even if you’re not Bill Gates (spoiler: it’s about all relationships, not just the rich ones).What a prenup really covers—it’s not just about divorce, but also what happens when marriage ends by death.How enforceable is your napkin agreement? (Hint: Notarization, signatures, and full disclosure are everything!)The lowdown on postnups—did you know Ohio just updated its laws, making postnuptial agreements an option for couples already married?Myths vs. reality: Prenups aren’t just about protecting yourself—they can also protect children, address business ventures, and even outline how to handle unexpected windfalls (hello, surprise royalties or farm booms!).Moments04:55 Notarization for Real Estate Promises06:52 Prenups: Beyond Divorce Planning10:54 Undisclosed Assets in Divorce Settlements15:24 Marital Agreements and Estate Planning16:53 Prenuptial Agreements: Motivations and Considerations20:43 Prenup Considerations for Unique Needs23:14 Medicaid Impact on Long-Term Care26:06 Updated Divorce Agreement Strategies30:06 Contracts Beyond Marriage: Versatile Agreements32:29 Podcast Insights with Larae SchraderWe 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 Johnson 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.