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 Transportation Coordination Region 6.

This plan aims to enhance transportation options and coordination for older adults, people with disabilities, new Americans, and low-income populations across nine counties – Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Licking, Logan, Madison, Pickaway, and Union.

Emma underscores the impact public transportation has on personal independence, sharing her experience as an anxious driver who prefers using mass transit for its cost-effectiveness and the ability to enjoy downtown scenery.

The episode also highlights additional programs provided by MORPC, such as home energy efficiency, safety services, and air quality monitoring in Ohio. Carol encourages listeners not to self-disqualify from these programs and to engage with Morpsey staff who are available to offer assistance.

Top Takeaways

1. Importance of Regional Mobility Planning: The significance of developing a comprehensive mobility plan that caters to the needs of older adults, people with disabilities, new Americans, and low-income populations across the 9-county region in Ohio.

2. Role of Mobility Managers: The pivotal role played by mobility managers, who are instrumental in individualized transportation planning, community outreach, and advocating for access to transit for seniors and people with disabilities.

3. Transportation Challenges and Solutions: The challenges faced in transportation planning, including siloed funding and capacity issues, while introducing solutions like the Emergency Ride Home program and Ohio Commute.

5. Emergency and Alternative Transit: Essential information regarding alternative transportation methods and emergency planning is provided, essential for preparing for unexpected situations and supporting an aging population.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Providing transportation solutions for clients with mobility.

07:35 Nonpartisan data analysis, long-term planning for growth.

10:33 Regional mobility plan addresses needs of disadvantaged groups.

15:14 Regional mobility plan involves community engagement strategies.

23:37 Free transportation service for seniors and workers.

25:45 Encouraging regional mobility plans, easing administrative burden.

28:45 Counties and transit agencies collaborate to improve mobility.

32:30 Using public transit expands independence and convenience.

44:23 Plan for diverse transportation options for all.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

For anyone interested in senior wellness and innovation, this episode is a gold mine of insights—pun intended.

Welcome to "Looking Forward Our Way," where we welcome Daniel Seltzer, executive director of Evergold at Home. Daniel shared how Evergold's Life Plan at Home program is revolutionizing the experience of aging, with wellness management and financial protection.

From the empowering use of smartwatches to personalized care coordination, Evergold is crafting a future where seniors can remain independent and financially secure.

We dissected the real challenges of senior housing and how proactive planning is key. Seltzer-Evergold-Resource-Sheet-2024.pdf">More resources can be found here.

Top Takeaways

1. **Life Plan at Home Program**: Evergold at Home's innovative program provides an alternative for older adults to nursing homes, allowing them to live independently, manage wellness, coordinate care, and safeguard financial assets against rising healthcare costs.

2. **Building Community for Seniors**: Through monthly events, social engagements, and community-building activities like walks, museum visits, and educational events, Evergold at Home fosters a sense of belonging and combats the common issue of loneliness among aging individuals.

3. **Home Living Evaluation and Modification**: Addressing the top challenges seniors face with housing, such as necessary home modifications and maintenance, Evergold at Home assists with assessments and strategic planning for a safer living environment.

4. **The Role of Technology in Senior Care**: Evergold at Home provides smartwatches and encourages the use of digital platforms, emphasizing the positive impact and potential of technology in enhancing seniors' autonomy and emergency preparedness.

5. **Care Coordination and Cost Management**: Daniel Seltzer discusses Evergold at Home's approach to coordinating personalized care plans and handling the expenses of care through membership fees, offering lifetime cost predictability and flexible coverage options.

6. **The Necessity of Proactive Senior Planning**: The podcast highlights the crucial need for early evaluation and individualized planning for senior housing and services to prepare for future needs, rather than waiting for a health crisis to occur.

7. **Seniors and Assistive Technologies**: The conversation underscores how technologies, including smartwatches and traditional assistive devices like eyeglasses and hearing aids, can significantly enhance the quality of life for the elderly.

8. **Engaging the Next Generation in Gerontology**: Daniel Seltzer encourages students interested in gerontology to actively volunteer, seek mentorship, and join professional networks to gain valuable experience and make connections within the field.

9. **The Growing Older Adult Population**: Carol Ventresca and Daniel Seltzer discuss the demographic trends and the rising number of older adults, highlighting the increasing demand for senior services that cater to this expanding population.

10. **Empowerment through Education and Questions**: When considering Evergold at Home's services or any senior care options, potential members are urged to ask probing questions, do thorough research, and educate themselves to ensure they find a program that aligns with their needs and expectations.

Memorable Moments

00:00 BA in history, volunteer in Israel, nursing home.

04:59 Life Plan at Home program.

07:23 Home program includes wellness management, care coordination.

12:39 Membership: fixed monthly cost for care.

13:47 Program offers flexibility, 48 state mobility, refunds.

18:40 Challenges in senior housing: home modifications, cost.

21:22 Seniors can benefit from technology, debunking misconceptions.

24:51 Advice for gerontology students: volunteer, find mentor, network.

27:54 Prepare and research for effective decision-making.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

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, and Kevin Byrd, a member of Otterbein's LLC. The episode emphasizes that Central Ohio offers a range of opportunities for lifelong learning, including programs at Ohio State, Columbus State, and other state and private schools, as well as free courses throughout the state offered by the higher education office.

The episode delves into the idea of starting a lifelong learning community (LLC), which may initially seem intimidating, but it is described as a welcoming community offering opportunities for learning, networking, and social interaction. It is emphasized that there is no financial loss for trying different programs like LLC, senior college, or academic classes, and walking away if it doesn't suit one's needs is always an option.

Participants in the LLC program shared their gratitude for the experience, highlighting the sense of community and support, and emphasizing the value of learning as a gift. Kevin Byrd specifically emphasized the value of faculty and professors who are genuinely enthusiastic and engaged in teaching.

Dana Viglietta discusses her career at Otterbein University, from being a student to working in alumni relations, and explains the LLC’s application process. She emphasizes the importance of being a lifelong learner and how the program aligns with the university's mission and values.

The program has members who support the university and the local community through various activities, such as theater patronage, involvement in senior college programs, support for art galleries, and assistance to international students. The panel emphasizes how members utilize their learning experiences to create new businesses, hobbies, or enhance local nonprofits, churches, or schools, and share their knowledge with others.

The Otterbein LLC program features a mix of classes taught by faculty, members of the LLC, and community members, with a focus on offering something for everyone and being open to learning new topics.

Kevin Byrd stresses the importance of lifelong learning and the value of continued education and training beyond obtaining a degree. The program facilitates connections and networking among members, allowing for the sharing of experiences and valuable insights.

Memorable Moments

07:47 Mix of faculty, community, appealing to all.

10:29 New network brings unexpected connections and insights.

18:07 Program for individuals age 60 and over.

21:44 LLC members share and spread knowledge.

23:00 Panel discussion highlights community involvement and connections.

30:24 Advice for joining LLC, to not feel like an outsider.

34:44 Professors enjoy teaching and students are engaged.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

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, darleneziebell.com/">a seasoned strategist and consultant, begins by discussing the critical process of assessing a struggling business. She stresses the importance of understanding financials and monitoring economic indicators to make informed decisions and establish a backup plan.

Top Takeaways

1. **Recognize When to Bail**: Darlene stresses the importance for small business owners to know when it's time to sell and not pour more resources into a failing venture, much like intelligent stock market strategies of selling high and buying low.

2. **Stop Bleeding Cash**: A struggling business must stabilize by ceasing spending on activities that don't generate sales, such as ineffective social media advertising, which often diverts focus from more productive avenues.

3. **Employee Efficiency**: It's crucial to measure the revenue contribution of each employee.

4. **Financial Literacy is Key**: Knowing and understanding financials thoroughly is necessary for assessing business profitability and making wise, informed decisions.

5. **Competitive Vigilance**: Regularly evaluate your business against the competition and stay ahead of market trends to maintain a competitive edge. Constantly adapting to changing market dynamics is vital for survival.

6. **Expert Insight**: Leverage the expertise of professionals in HR, legal, and financial domains. However, vet these experts carefully—poor advice can lead to mishaps.

7. **Strategic Communication**: Communicate effectively with both customers and employees, ensure that financial concerns are clearly addressed, and ascertain that everyone has the skills needed as the company grows.

8. **Marketing Wisdom**: Refrain from wasteful spending on ineffective marketing strategies. Seek advice on understanding customer preferences and collect regular feedback for more targeted and successful marketing efforts.

9. **Be Ready to Adapt**: Understand the signs of a failing business and the importance of having backup plans. A failing business may require a completely new strategic approach, including cost reductions and seeking the right expertise for specific issues.

10. **Empowerment for Female Entrepreneurs**: Darlene advises female business owners to practice saying no to avoid steering the business off course and to focus on sales-generating activities. Women should not hesitate to seek help when necessary and be candid about the challenges they face.

Memorable Moments

05:24 Prepare for economic changes with backup plans.

08:38 Business owners need to monitor operations closely.

12:26 Non-profit public speaking, lack of market research.

19:34 Be careful what you read and watch.

21:53 Small business owners should measure employee revenue.

25:58 Small business owners need to monitor financials.

29:21 Evaluate previous marketing, seek expert advice, adapt.

36:28 Sharing knowledge through webinars and consulting.

44:22 Revise strategic plan based on past failures.

49:20 Redirecting individuals to gain necessary skills first.

51:31 Fear of saying no affects business success.

57:22 Success requires constant effort.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

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, empowering individuals to advocate for their own healthcare needs, and the importance of changing societal perceptions of aging.

They explore various aspects of gerontology, emphasizing the need for empathy-based training for medical professionals and advocating for improved healthcare services for older adults.

The episode begins with Bechtel sharing her connection to gerontology, stemming from her experience with her grandparents and her passion for hospice care. She delves into the need for communication and grief recovery support for older adults, setting the stage for a discussion about the challenges of building awareness and knowledge in geriatrics and gerontology within the medical community.

Throughout the episode, the conversation has valuable insights from Bechtel about the services provided by Ohio State University's College of Medicine office of geriatrics and gerontology. She discusses the university's goal of ensuring that medical professionals are equipped with knowledge and empathy to understand the unique needs of older patients, incorporating aging concepts into the medical school curriculum for a more positive and empathetic perspective.

One of the key focal points of the episode is the importance of recognizing and addressing issues of abuse and neglect in older adult populations. Bechtel sheds light on her work with the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging to educate case managers and emphasizes the significance of understanding and addressing emotional and financial abuse in addition to physical harm in the context of caregiving for older adults.

A major highlight of the discussion revolves around the program initiatives at Ohio State University, including the Aging Connections hub, which plays a pivotal role in providing information and resources for the university community and the public regarding aging-related topics. Bechtel shares details about the program's goals, such as redesigning the website to be more user-friendly and expanding resources to facilitate easier access to information about aging.

Additionally, Bechtel introduces the SAGE (Series in Applied Gerontology Education) program, which offers certificate courses in gerontology, aiming to equip healthcare workers with knowledge and skills for working with older populations. The conversation also touches upon the Buckeye Buddy program, promoting intergenerational understanding and appreciation by involving middle school students in interviewing older adults in the community.

The conversation highlights the importance of changing the perception of aging and celebrating aging positively. They underline the need for continuous communication, connection with multiple resources for assistance, and advocating for one's own healthcare needs.

The impact of COVID-19 on older adults and the medical community's response is also addressed, along with the looming demographic shift where the aging population is projected to outnumber the younger population in the United States by 2034.

Top 5 Takeaways

1. Advocating for oneself in healthcare settings: Understanding the importance of actively participating in conversations with healthcare providers and advocating for individual healthcare needs.

2. Changing the narrative on aging: Addressing societal perceptions and stigmatization of aging, and promoting a positive and celebratory perspective on the aging process.

3. Innovations in gerontology education: Highlighting educational initiatives such as the Series in Applied Gerontology Education (SAGE) program and the Buckeye Buddy program to foster intergenerational understanding and appreciation.

4. Career opportunities in senior care: Exploring career options related to senior care and considering opportunities beyond traditional career paths in healthcare through programs like "Careers That Love You Back".

5. Importance of early conversations about options in the healthcare field: Encouraging discussions about the healthcare field's concentration on older patients, policy, and reimbursement, and the need to prepare for the demographic shift where the aging population will outnumber the younger population.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Passion for grief recovery and hospice involvement.

06:23 Advocate for understanding, and empathy in medical care.

08:30 Preparing med students for aging population responsibilities.

12:23 Early conversations in healthcare careers are crucial.

13:42 Encouraging awareness of diverse career options.

22:15 A national presenter discussed aging statistics and successes.

23:32 Presentations led to meaningful World Cafe discussion.

28:41 Learning about resources for aging population programs.

33:09 Courses introduce knowledge in gerontology for various students.

34:29 Create elder care certification for health workers.

39:37 Service coordinators connect residents to available resources.

40:56 Designation program opens doors for service coordinators.

45:39 Advocate for your care, and connect to resources.

47:28 Access resources for geriatric assessments without delay.

52:35 Encouraging self-administered cognitive evaluation for older adults.

53:50 Change negative perception of aging, celebrate life.

Jennifer Bechtel is a native of Clintonville, and from a young age, she was greatly influenced by her grandparents, who served as her mentors. After attending Xavier University in Cincinnati and earning a degree in communications, Jennifer realized that she wanted to make a difference in the world. She discovered that it was possible to align her professional career with her passion for helping others. This realization has driven Jennifer to pursue opportunities where she can use her skills and talents to positively impact the lives of those around her.

We would love to hear from you.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

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 job seekers and those seeking to advance in their current roles. The conversation delves into the challenges of job hunting, the impact of ageism in the workforce, and how to stay prepared for potential job changes even while employed.

Sharon stresses the significance of professional organizations, both local and national, as valuable networking resources, particularly for remote work opportunities. She advocates for building contacts and acquiring new skills, emphasizing that job security is not guaranteed, making it essential for individuals to stay prepared for future opportunities.

The hosts delve into the fatigue and challenges of job hunting, to which Sharon advises keeping notes on issues and compliments in the new job, making skill-building and networking less overwhelming. The conversation touches on the feeling of guilt for job searching while employed and the balancing act between employer loyalty and self-preservation.

The episode addresses the challenges older adults face in job searches and focuses on career ownership while maintaining employment. The hosts and Sharon have worked with students and clients from ages 18 to 80 in educational and job search areas for many years, providing a well-rounded perspective on career management at any stage of life.

Treat networking as an enjoyable part of personal development rather than a chore, emphasizing its benefits and the need to find enjoyment in learning. Sharon suggests leveraging the plethora of free or low-cost resources for job seekers, including professional organizations, civic clubs, volunteering, and alumni networks for career support and job fairs.

The conversation also addresses signs that an employer may not be interested in helping individuals grow or may be considering eliminating their position, providing clues to be aware of and steps to take to prepare for the future. Don't forget the importance of staying updated on AI technology and skills and the growing use of artificial intelligence in the workforce, underscoring the need for continuous learning and skill acquisition.

Sharon stresses the importance of networking as a continuous process, encouraging listeners to stay in touch with contacts to keep their network warm for potential career opportunities. Professional organizations and trade publications are highlighted as offering valuable learning opportunities and insights into industry changes.

We also cover the support from employers in skill-building, the steps individuals can take to assess their current environment and engage in productive conversations with supervisors or HR, and the role of alumni organizations and nonprofits in providing job opportunities and support programs.

Top 5 Takeaways

1. Intentional networking and skill-building are essential for both job seekers and those currently employed, emphasizing the need for continuous career development.

2. Professional organizations and local/national networks are valuable resources for job opportunities and industry insights, especially in a remote work environment.

3. Staying prepared for potential job changes and being proactive in acquiring new skills are key strategies for career ownership, even while employed.

4. Ageism, rapidly changing work environments, and the use of AI are significant factors affecting career progression and job security, highlighting the importance of staying adaptable and current in the workforce.

5. Recognizing signs that an employer may not be invested in an employee's growth and being honest with oneself about the work environment is crucial for career preparedness.

Memorable Moments

02:37 Job hunting is a frustrating challenge for older adults.

05:57 Employers are not loyal.

08:44 Watch out for signs of declining company health.

12:48 Recognize economic cycles, assess skills, and seek feedback.

15:36 Adapt to changing work environment and contribute effectively.

17:50 Continuously learn new skills for career advancement.

20:41 Utilize professional resources to stay ahead in your industry.

23:36 Intentional networking: skill building, occasional outreach.

27:10 Networking is important for job search success.

31:14 Columbus offers various job search resources.

35:37 Keep notes for career success and autonomy.

Sharon Hamersley has been dedicated to helping people in their career journey for nearly 40 years. Starting as an academic adviser at Ohio State, she has spent the last 10-12 years running her own business focused on guiding and empowering individuals through job searches and career advancements. Through coaching, tools, and resources, Sharon aims to give people the self-confidence and knowledge they need to identify and reach their next career step.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

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 is in promoting collaboration, networking, and resource sharing.

Christine sheds light on the deep impact of the Roundtable, showcasing how it has facilitated communication and sharing of over 6,000 emails from 550 organizations over a 10-year period, leading to fruitful connections and resource sharing.

The Roundtable, under the Age Friendly Innovation Center, serves as a crucial platform for information sharing, collaboration, and advocacy, with over 750 engaged members. It fosters a low-stakes environment where members can contribute as they are able and when needed. The Roundtable serves as a clearinghouse of information and ideas to enable older adults to age in place, positively impacting the community.

The episode delves into the Roundtable's evolution, emphasizing its seamless transition to virtual formats during the pandemic, highlighting the efficiency of Zoom programming and the vital role of organizations in meeting the needs of older adults during challenging times. Despite the difficulties posed by the pandemic, the community rallied together to ensure the care and well-being of older adults in Franklin County.

An essential aspect of the Roundtable's mission is to champion resources, networking, and collaboration while offering opportunities for evolution and experimentation. Notably, the organization plans to continue implementing member requests and recommendations, with a forthcoming focus on providing free CEU opportunities in 2024.

The Age-Friendly Innovation Center's successful initiative in Columbus is recognized as a model that could be replicated in other Ohio regions, leveraging networking groups to provide unique advantages for the roundtable model. The success of the Roundtable in Columbus is attributed to the collaborative efforts of community leaders, the support of the mayor, and local organizations.

The importance of promoting and sharing information about programs and resources, such as libraries, to support the existing work, is emphasized. Additionally, the Roundtable actively supports and promotes the library as a valuable and friendly resource. However there are challenges in communicating and disseminating information to older adults, and there are ongoing efforts to understand how older adults obtain trusted information and to improve communication in the community.

"Communication is something that is ever-changing and access to communication tools like technology is not equitable across our community."

— Christine Happel

We also talk about the challenges in technology access and digital equity for older adults, focusing on the Age Friendly Innovation Center's initiatives to address the needs of older residents in the community. Word-of-mouth is still an important communication tool as well as in-person interactions.

Christine discusses the significant challenges related to housing and transportation needs for older adults and the collective efforts of the aging network to address these issues through discussions, advocacy, and initiatives.

Key Takeaways

1. The Senior Services Roundtable, under the Age Friendly Innovation Center, serves as a vital communication pipeline in Columbus, Ohio, connecting seniors with valuable resources and services, with a focus on information sharing and collaboration within the aging network.

2. The roundtable has over 750 engaged members and aims to be inclusive to all individuals interested in aging-related work, providing a unique platform for networking, resource sharing, and advocacy for older adults in the community.

3. The roundtable's informal and low-stakes nature allows members to contribute as they are able, leading to collaborative efforts and an emphasis on action-oriented opportunities to facilitate aging in place and meet the needs of older adults within the community.

4. Through the use of an email list server, the roundtable facilitates connections and resource sharing, with over 6,000 emails exchanged from 550 organizations over 10 years, demonstrating the power of information dissemination within the aging network.

5. The roundtable, a successful aging program, aims to address significant issues such as housing and transportation needs for older adults through discussions, advocacy, and collective initiatives within the aging network.

Memorable Moments

04:14 Senior Services Roundtable promotes aging resource collaboration.

09:52 Age Friendly fosters new efforts, and admin support.

16:39 Age Friendly Innovation Center focuses on communication.

19:17 Digital equity coalition works to bridge gaps.

22:01 The aging network faces housing and transportation challenges.

26:04 Collaboration in non-profits aiding older adults' employment.

Past Looking Forward Our Way episodes we mention in the episode.

Christine Happel is a dedicated social worker who has made an impact in her community through her various roles. After completing her field placement for her master's of social work at the Clintonville Beach Weld Community Resources Center in 2013, she was offered a position as an outreach worker in the senior supportive services program. Within a year, she became the founding director of Village in the Ville and the Greater Columbus Network of Villages. After a decade at the CRC, Christine transitioned to the Age Friendly Innovation Center in 2022. Before her impressive career in social work, she lived and worked in a co-working community as a caregiver for a young woman with autism, which solidified her belief in the importance of building communities to meet a wide range of needs. Christine's dedication to creating supportive and inclusive communities has made a lasting impact on those she has worked with.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

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 by businesses in Central Ohio to tap into underutilized workforce pools, such as older adults and immigrant communities.

The discussion highlights the importance of multigenerational workplaces, the challenges faced by students and job seekers amidst the pandemic, and the abundance of opportunities in Central Ohio.

**Engaging Older Workers:**

The episode opens with the story of a third-generation owner of a small manufacturing company in Northwest Ohio, who faced challenges in hiring young workers for well-paying factory jobs. Responding to this dilemma, the owner devised a pioneering strategy of engaging retired workers from the company to work part-time, thereby facilitating the mentorship and training of young employees. This approach underscores the benefits of multigenerational workplaces in knowledge transfer and skill development.

The hosts and Kelly Fuller explore the data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which reflects a growing number of older adults seeking part-time work and flexibility, shedding light on the potential for businesses to integrate older workers into their staffing strategies.

**Empowering Immigrant Communities:**

The conversation continues with a focus on businesses in Central Ohio that have forged strong relationships with refugee and immigrant communities to address workforce challenges. The example of AmerisourceBergen in Lockbourne is highlighted, where deliberate efforts were made to appeal to diverse candidates through marketing materials, cultural accommodations, and community engagement.

The episode emphasizes the availability of resources, such as the HRACO (Human Resource Association of Central Ohio), Jewish Family Services, CRIS, and Riverview International Center, which support employers in connecting with and supporting refugee and immigrant communities.

**Training and Upskilling Programs:**

The episode explores the various low-cost or no-cost training programs available for job seekers in Central Ohio, offered by entities like Ohio Technical Centers, Columbus Metropolitan Library, and Jewish Family Services. Notably, the Columbus Metropolitan Library's provision of free access to LinkedIn learning courses and accommodations for starting a business or nonprofit is highlighted.

The Ohio Small Business Development Centers and programs like Accelerate in Columbus are also showcased as valuable resources for individuals interested in entrepreneurship.

**Employer Support and Local Opportunities:**

Insights are shared regarding the availability of programs and services offered by local resources such as ECDI and the Workforce Development Board of Central Ohio, which aid employers in recruiting, training, and expanding their businesses.

**Impact of Pandemic on Education and Workforce Readiness:**

The episode shifts to a discussion on the impact of the pandemic on K-12 education, focusing on the learning loss and lack of social skills faced by students. The closure of opportunities for part-time jobs, mentoring, and internships for high school juniors and seniors is explored, imparting an understanding of the challenges faced by students amidst the pandemic.

**Fostering Inclusive Hiring Practices:**

The conversation delves deep into the initiatives undertaken by businesses to recruit underrepresented talent pipelines, extending opportunities to refugees, immigrants, adults with varying abilities, and individuals with criminal backgrounds.

**Addressing Talent Shortages:**

The episode addresses the employment landscape in Central Ohio, where a shortage of skilled workers is observed, partly due to an aging population and declining birth rates. The impact of factors such as caregiving responsibilities, skill gaps, affordable housing, and transportation issues on unemployment is discussed.

**Positive Outlook and Resources:**

Kelly Fuller shares her optimism about the future and encourages listeners to remain engaged and look forward to positive developments in Ohio. The episode concludes with the hosts expressing gratitude to Kelly Fuller and encouraging listeners to visit their website for contacts and resources related to the discussion. Additionally, they express eagerness to receive feedback on the podcast episodes.

Top 5 Takeaways

1. Multigenerational workplaces offer valuable opportunities for knowledge transfer and skills development, contributing to a more diverse and skilled labor force.

2. Employers should consider adapting their recruitment and staffing strategies to engage older workers and support underrepresented talent pipelines, including refugees, immigrants, and individuals with criminal backgrounds.

3. Local organizations and resources, such as Tarako Human Resource Association, Jewish Family Services, and Ohio Small Business Development Centers, offer valuable support for job seekers, employers, and those interested in starting or growing a business.

4. Access to low-cost or no-cost training programs and resources, such as those provided by the Columbus Metropolitan Library and Ohio Technical Centers, can help individuals upskill and gain specific job-related skills.

5. Despite challenges, there is optimism about the future of Ohio, and individuals are encouraged to stay engaged and look forward to positive developments in the region.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Role as VP at Columbus Chamber helps businesses.

03:42 Aging population poses a workforce challenge by 2030.

07:55 Schools pivoted to virtual learning, impacting skills.

10:08 Revisiting underrepresented talent pipelines in the workplace.

16:15 Discussion focused on changing labor statistics and needs.

18:21 AmerisourceBergen partners with refugee communities for jobs.

21:18 SHRM operates locally, and focuses on HR professionals.

24:09 Utilize local resources for free training options.

28:49 Exciting opportunities in Central Ohio's business development.

Kelly Fuller is the Vice President of Talent And Workforce Development at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. In this role, she serves as a resource for the chamber's 23,100 plus member businesses, helping them find and retain the talent they need to fill critical roles. When employers struggle to find qualified applicants for their open positions, Kelly steps in to connect them with agencies, organizations, and educational institutions to access talent pipelines. Her work is instrumental in supporting the growth and success of businesses in the Columbus area.

We would love to hear from you.

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

Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

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 engagement, fostering community involvement, and addressing news deserts, this insightful conversation sheds light on the critical role of nonprofit news organizations in reinvigorating local journalism and connecting with diverse audiences. Here's a comprehensive overview of the episode:

Fostering Civic Engagement and Accountability

The episode begins with an exploration of the growing trust in media and its positive influence on civic engagement. The hosts and Rita delve into the impact of media presence on the behavior of politicians and the challenges associated with educating the electorate about government and journalism. Rita emphasizes the importance of involving and educating young people in journalism through internships and fellowships to address this challenge effectively.

Sustainability and Revenue Models

Rita provides valuable insights into Signal Ohio's mission to target underserved communities and create an ecosystem of accessible, impactful news without a paywall. The organization's commitment to diversifying revenue streams is highlighted, reflecting its focus on achieving long-term sustainability through innovative strategies such as member sales, ads, and philanthropic giving.

Impact Beyond Journalism

The discussion further emphasizes the broader impact of nonprofit news on community and civic engagement, steering away from dictating opinions and instead providing thoughtful explainers for complex issues. Rita sheds light on Signal Ohio's current focus on local issues and their aspirations to develop a statehouse newsroom in the future, underlining their dedication to addressing major election issues, gerrymandering, and providing voters with crucial information on local ballot issues and judicial races.

Expanding Influence in Ohio

Rita shares the dynamic approach of Signal Ohio in reaching diverse audiences and delivering news through multiple mediums, including websites, public forums, SMS news delivery, and audio news technology. The episode delves into the organization's plans for expanding into new areas, including the launch of Signal Cleveland and the upcoming launch of Signal Akron, with future intentions to expand into additional parts of Ohio.

Empowered Community Engagement

Central to the conversation is the organization's commitment to empowering and informing the community through various mediums, reflecting their efforts to capture the pulse of different regions and capitalize on word-of-mouth, documenters, public forums, videos, and social media to raise awareness.

Challenges and Triumphs in Nonprofit Journalism

The challenges facing local journalism, economic struggles, and changing news consumption patterns are highlighted, followed by a detailed exploration of the transformative impact of Signal Ohio's newsrooms and dedicated reporters spearheading community-based journalism. Their utilization of documenters, everyday citizens trained by the City Bureau, serves as a powerful example of how nonprofit news organizations can enhance government transparency, accountability, and community understanding.

Inspiring Words of Wisdom from Rita McNeil Danish

Rita concludes the episode by sharing her inspiring perspective on the vital role of nonprofit journalism in contributing to positive change. She emphasizes the importance of seeking truth, contributing to the community, and embracing the opportunity to make a difference.

Takeaways

1. Nonprofit news organizations like Signal Ohio are vital for addressing news deserts and revitalizing civic engagement by delivering local news in diverse and accessible ways.

2. The funding model of nonprofit news organizations initially relies heavily on philanthropy, gradually transitioning to major donors, membership subscribers, ad sales, and diversified revenue streams for sustainability.

3. Community involvement and understanding are crucial for successful journalism, with nonprofit newsrooms using various formats and engagement efforts such as public forums, library hours, comics, and documenters for robust local news coverage.

4. Documenters, everyday citizens trained to cover government meetings, play a key role in enhancing government transparency, accountability, and community engagement.

5. Journalists in nonprofit newsrooms focus on community-based journalism, prioritizing beats like education, health, public safety, and government accountability driven by community needs.

6. Nonprofit news organizations emphasize the need for diverse revenue streams, including member sales, ads, and philanthropic giving, to achieve sustainability beyond the initial phase of funding.

7. The decline of community involvement and accessibility to local news in certain regions highlights the impact of diminished local journalism on civic engagement and the need for revitalization efforts.

8. Nonprofit news organizations aim to educate and involve young people in journalism and media through internships, fellowships, and innovative storytelling methods, fostering future civic engagement.

9. The impact of nonprofit news extends beyond journalism, targeting community and civic engagement and emphasizing the importance of providing objective information to help voters make informed decisions.

10. Differentiating from traditional news outlets, nonprofit news organizations like Signal Ohio prioritize delivering news in formats accessible to various communities, including through technology, public forums, and SMS news delivery, to bridge news deserts and engage diverse audiences.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Grew up valuing community, now a lawyer.

03:25 Passionate about local government and civic engagement.

08:12 AJP and Cleveland Foundation study news deserts.

11:35 Signal Cleveland delivers news in accessible ways.

16:28 Government accountability, community, business, health series coverage.

19:03 Community journalism uncovers misused casino revenue.

22:22 College journalism students prefer social media over-reporting.

24:40 NPR's outreach to underserved, distrusting audiences.

27:54 The News model relies on philanthropy and donors.

32:18 Cleveland community focused on the arts and police oversight.

33:25 Requesting feedback on tracking data and content.

38:23 Akron aims to serve Summit County citizens.

42:18 Using public forums and documentaries to raise awareness.

45:20 Raising funds and forming diverse committees.

47:43 Diversify revenue streams with ads, memberships, and giving.

49:46 Diverse revenue streams are vital for impact.

We would love to hear from you.

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

Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

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 creating a strong resume to utilizing effective networking strategies.

The episode emphasizes the importance of being mindful of social media presence, particularly during politically charged times. The hosts discuss an anecdote where a recruiter warned students about the significance of their social media profiles and the potential impact on future opportunities. This serves as a caution to job seekers about carefully considering their social media activity and its potential long-term consequences.

Furthermore, the significance of networking and informational interviews is highlighted as essential for job seekers. The hosts stress the importance of believing in oneself and presenting confidence during the job search and interview process. Guest Kelly Fuller provides three key tips for job seekers, which include applying for jobs even if they don't meet all the requirements, utilizing LinkedIn for networking, and conducting thorough research on companies they want to work for.

As the episode progresses, Marilyn Bury-Rice shares valuable tips for job seekers over 50, emphasizing the importance of assessing accomplishments and skills, being strategic in job applications, and finding confidence in their experience. This provides valuable insights for older job seekers, highlighting unique considerations for this demographic.

The importance of a targeted job search strategy is emphasized throughout the episode, with a focus on utilizing the resume strategically for job searches and networking. Sharon Hamersley advises against applying to jobs without a strategy to avoid frustration and burnout, emphasizing the significance of having a clear plan before embarking on the job search process.

The episode also delves into the role of resumes in the job search process. Rebecca Heslep highlights the importance of attention to detail in resume writing, including spelling and grammar, organizing content chronologically, and tailoring the resume to the specific job applied for. Additionally, the hosts discuss the significance of having others review resumes for accuracy and making a good first impression, as well as the use of tools like Grammarly for assistance.

Jill Kulman provides valuable advice, emphasizing the importance of updating resumes and utilizing the process sign for various steps in the job search strategy. Furthermore, Darlene Ziebell advises against posting inappropriate material on social media, sending generic cover letters, and solely relying on online job searches, highlighting the significance of networking and tailored cover letters for job applications.

Listeners are encouraged to check the show notes on the website for contact Tips-for-job-seekers-Resources-2024.pdf">information and resources discussed, as well as to share feedback on the podcast episodes.

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 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 Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson