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.

Moments

00:00 "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 Writing

51:34 "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 Involvement

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

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Recorded in Studio C at

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 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 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 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.

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 Takeaways

Adaptability is Essential

Opportunities 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 Gaps

Manufacturing’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 Growth

Whether 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.

Moments

00:00 Workforce Development Retrospective

03:14 Small-Town Roots, Workforce Journey

08:02 Ohio's Evolving Manufacturing Landscape

12:31 Healthcare Jobs Surge in Ohio

14:58 Career Planning Challenges Ahead

18:23 "Columbus Way: Balanced Economy Insights"

22:24 Downtown Living and Housing Solutions

24:50 "Remote Work's Impact and Pushback"

29:38 Expanding Workforce & Talent Pipelines

31:11 "Building Community-Focused Infrastructure"

33:42 "Focus on Regional Strengths"

39:31 People-Centric Growth and Belonging

We would love to hear from you.

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Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com.

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Let’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!

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!).

Moments

04:55 Notarization for Real Estate Promises

06:52 Prenups: Beyond Divorce Planning

10:54 Undisclosed Assets in Divorce Settlements

15:24 Marital Agreements and Estate Planning

16:53 Prenuptial Agreements: Motivations and Considerations

20:43 Prenup Considerations for Unique Needs

23:14 Medicaid Impact on Long-Term Care

26:06 Updated Divorce Agreement Strategies

30:06 Contracts Beyond Marriage: Versatile Agreements

32:29 Podcast Insights with Larae Schrader

We would love to hear from you.

Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.

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And of course, everything can be found on our website,

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 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 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 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...

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 hello@lookingforwardourway.com.

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And of course, everything can be found on our website, Looking Forward Our Way.

Recorded in Studio C at

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.

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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