The Looking Forward Our Way podcast addresses today’s critical issues that impact the lives, and livelihood, of those traveling their own way. Looking Forward Our Way is co-hosted by veteran and award-winning podcasters, Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson. Each episode provides information, resources and ideas to our listeners, all available at the click of a link! Here’s what you can expect to hear us talk about… Employment Financial and legal issues Technology Healthy living Housing Discove ...
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Leveling The Playing Field Ohio: A World With No Sidelines
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"They can grab a cart, grab a clipboard, and essentially go shopping free of charge for whatever they need to support their program."— Eric Rutkowski Welcome to another episode of "Looking Forward Our Way"! We are joined by Eric Rutkowski, the program director for Leveling The Playing Field Ohio. Eric shares his inspiring mission to support youth s…
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Digital Estates: How to Handle Your Online Presence After You're Gone
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Consolidating Accounts and Legal Risks: "I think the biggest risk would be for the financial accounts because the person that does know the password that is the key to the kingdom may not understand where their control starts and where their authority ends, And just because they know the password to that bank account doesn't mean that the dollars s…
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We have a special announcement: Employment Forward Seniors, a casualty of the pandemic, now finds a new home under the New Directions Career Center as Mature Works. Joining us are experts Kat Yamaguchi and Jami Phillips from New Directions Career Center. With rich backgrounds in nonprofit program development and job seeker support, they share insig…
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Combatting Age Discrimination in Hiring and Retention
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The episode focuses on the challenges and solutions associated with ageism in the workplace, particularly concerning mature adults. With insights from experts Dr. Phillip Taylor and Dr. Phyllis Cummins, the discussion explores the importance of addressing age discrimination, rethinking job roles for older workers, and the benefits of intergeneratio…
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The Magic of a Reboot and other Tech Tips
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We are joined by tech experts Andy Landrum and Alex West from Nice Guy Technology. We dive into the importance of rebooting your computer, the crucial practice of backing up data, and the precautions you should take with USB drives. Andy and Alex share insights from their rich background, offering practical advice on diagnosing tech problems and di…
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In this episode, we look into a harrowing yet crucial topic—human trafficking. Joined by our special guest Theresa Flores, the founder of The SOAP Project, we explore the intricacies of combating this pervasive issue. Theresa, a survivor of human trafficking herself, shares her profound insights and the impactful work being done by her organization…
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The Impact of The Garden For All on Food Insecurity
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Garden For All blossoms with hope and inspiration as we explore the fertile ground of food security efforts led by our expert guest, Beth NeCamp, the executive director of Garden For All. Amidst the thorns of food insecurity, The Garden For All sprouted as a beacon of nourishment and education during the pandemic, founded by the compassionate duo, …
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Ben Hoeger on the Power of Financial Preparedness
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Ben Hoeger, Director, Private Wealth Management – Baird, shares valuable advice on building a strong financial foundation. Hoeger stresses the critical role of referrals in selecting reliable financial advisors and advocates for a meaningful, almost friendly relationship with them for a successful long-term partnership. We discuss the shift from re…
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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 Transport…
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Embracing Senior Independence with Evergold Life Plan at Home
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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 …
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Inside Otterbein's Lifelong Learning Community Program
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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, an…
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Mastering Business Turnarounds: Strategies from Darlene Ziebell
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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, a seasoned strategist and consultant, begins by discussing the critical process of assessing a…
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The Ohio State University's Gerontology and Geriatrics Initiatives
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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, empowe…
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Own Your Career, with Expert Guest Sharon Hamersley
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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…
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Age Friendly Innovation Center: Building Services and Support Networks
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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 i…
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Ohio's Workforce Evolution and Opportunities Ahead
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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 …
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Signal Ohio is Bridging News Deserts and Fueling Civic Empowerment
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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 enga…
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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 creat…
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Welcome to "Looking Forward Our Way," where we bring you the latest insights and expert advice on issues relevant to those 50 and older in Central Ohio and beyond. As we celebrate our 4th year of podcasting, we reflect on the past 3 years of providing over 100 episodes. With a focus on bringing valuable information and entertainment to our 50-plus …
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The Central Ohio Affordable Housing Crisis
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We tackle a pressing issue that is impacting Central Ohio: the housing crisis. Joining us as our special guests are Michael Wilkos and Carlie Boos, who will shed light on the current state of affordable housing in the region and discuss potential solutions. We'll explore the allocation of funds for affordable housing, efforts to update zoning codes…
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We had the pleasure of talking with Kimberly Schwind, Assistant Director & Training Programs Administrator, Ohio Traffic Safety Office for the Ohio Department of Public Safety. And Angie Wise, Ohio Statewide CarFit Coordinator for the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging, about important initiatives to support the mobility and safety of older Ohioans …
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Jamming, Bonding, and Rocking On: School of Rock Columbus Builds Community through Music
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We are joined by Russ Brand and Chad Greenwald, the passionate individuals behind this unique music education program that has been making waves in the community. Throughout the episode, they discuss the core values, transformative experiences, and the continuous growth of School of Rock Columbus. Passion and fun are the driving forces behind Schoo…
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Through the Camera's Eye: Documenting the Stories of World War II Veterans
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We sit down with guest Ed Zirkle, a veteran and photographer. Ed begins by sharing that his involvement with a TED Talk on PTSD has led him to conduct extensive background research on the topic. He emphasizes that PTSD affects only a small percentage of people, particularly veterans, and is often considered an invisible wound. Ed's primary goal is …
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Thrills, Chills, and Dinner with Get Away With Murder
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We are joined by guest Mark Seven, Owner, Producer, Director of Get Away With Murder, a traveling improv mystery comedy dinner theatre. The episode begins by acknowledging the struggle that theaters and entertainment venues face in terms of declining attendance and difficulty in marketing to their regular customers. One potential reason for this de…
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Medicaid Myths Debunked with Schraeder Law
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We are joined by guest Larae Schraeder, an attorney specializing in elder law and Medicaid eligibility and planning. Schraeder shares her expertise and personal experiences while discussing the intricacies of Medicaid and the importance of proper planning for long-term care. Larae emphasizes the need for strategic preparation when it comes to poten…
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Making Informed Choices for Medicare Open Enrollment with Josh Kinzel
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Josh Kinzel from Seniority Benefits Group is back in the studio to talk about the 2024 Medicare Open Enrollment. Josh starts off by explaining that when it comes to Medicare choices, you have some flexibility. You can go with a supplement and drug plan or opt for a Medicare Advantage plan. The decision really depends on your own risk tolerance when…
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How We CAN Afford To Feed Healthy Pet Food with Fangs & Fur
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Our featured guest, Anthony Santilli from the Fangs & Fur Podcast, talks about his personal journey feeding his pet, sharing how a crisis in the pet food industry compelled him to reevaluate his career path. Witnessing the transformative impact of real, fresh, and raw food on dogs' health, he developed a passion for promoting healthier diets for ou…
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2023 Property Tax Reappraisal Process with Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano
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We have a very special guest joining us once again - Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano. Together, we will explore the hot topic of property tax reappraisal in 2023 and its impact on homeowners across the county. As we discuss the importance of modernizing the Homestead exemption and preventing property taxes from driving long-time residents…
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Protecting Your Digital Identity: Dark Web Insights with Nice Guy Technology
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In this episode, we have two special guests joining us, Mason Landrum and Alex West from Nice Guy Technology. We delve into the dark corners of the internet as we discuss the dark web and the importance of cybersecurity. Mason and Alex share valuable insights and tips to help us navigate this digital realm safely. From the dangers of vishing scams …
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Providing Essential Care: LifeCare Alliance’s Impact
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We welcome Chuck Gehring, President and CEO LifeCare Alliance. Throughout the episode, Chuck emphasizes the goal of keeping clients independent in their own homes and off waiting lists, emphasizing the importance of preventative measures and education. He also touches on the challenges faced by seniors living on a limited income and their struggles…
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On this episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we are joined by guest Sharon Hamersley to discuss the latest updates on LinkedIn. We discuss the recent addition of the "Open to work" feature which can help job seekers indicate their availability for job opportunities. Sharon also cautions listeners about the use of AI applications for content generati…
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Tracking Scams and Protecting Our Community: The BBB Working For Us
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On this episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we examine the issue of BBB scams with guest Lee Anne Lanigan, Director of Consumer Relations & Investigations - Better Business Bureau Serving Central Ohio. You are going to hear valuable tips on how to avoid scams and warn against buying into products and services that are "too good to be true." We urge…
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Empowering Holistic Health with the Harding-Buller Foundation
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In the latest episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we are joined by guest David Polakowski to discuss the Harding-Buller Foundation of Worthington (OH). Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: - Harding Hospital, built in 1925, not only offered medical treatment but also focused on alternative therapies such as horticulture, music, and art therap…
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Building Community: Importance of Volunteering with Besa for a Positive Experience
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On this episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we hear from Matthew Goldstein, the founder of Besa, a nonprofit organization that aims to reduce barriers to volunteering and connect people to opportunities to give back to their community. Matthew shares his personal journey of discovering a love for connecting with others through volunteering, and how…
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Building Bridges: The Art of Networking and Connecting
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Ken Lazar, CEO, of Ability Professional Network, and Frank Agin, Principal of AmSpirit Business Connections are our guests. They share their insights into the world of networking, emphasizing its importance in today's job market and business world. Listeners will learn about the critical practices for successful networking, such as adding value to …
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Nesterly and Village Connections - Helping Seniors Age Well at Home
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Housing for seniors has become an urgent focus area in Central Ohio. Our guests are Frances Krumholtz, Volunteer and Engagement Coordinator · Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging, and the Nesterly liaison. And Donald Wiggins, Executive Director at Village Connections. Nesterly is an intergenerational home-sharing platform that allows two or more peopl…
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Navigating Ageism in the Job Market with Deborah Hope
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Listeners will gain valuable insights on how job seekers over the age of 50 can overcome ageism and find fulfilling employment. Deborah Hope, an executive career coach and founder of the Massachusetts Library Collaborative 50 Plus Job Seekers Networking Group, shares her expertise on how individuals over 50 bring valuable skills and experience to t…
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Aging Gracefully: Insights and Innovations with Katie White from COAAA
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We welcome back Katie White, the new director of the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging, who shares her insights into the critical work that COAAA does to serve older Americans and individuals with disabilities in Central Ohio. With a focus on case management, education, and advocacy, COAAA provides essential services to thousands of individuals. Ho…
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Building a Healthy and Happy Community: The Upper Arlington Community Center Story
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City Manager at the City of Upper Arlington, Steve Schoeny, shares his excitement about the new community center and its plans to become a hub for health and wellness for all age groups. With a focus on serving older adults, the center will offer a range of amenities and services, from traditional rec center fitness facilities to healthcare service…
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Giving from A to Z: Exploring the Impact of Nonprofits with The Columbus Foundation
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Dan Sharpe, Vice President of Community Research and Grants Management for The Columbus Foundation, covers the nonprofit sector and how nonprofits are impacting the Central Ohio economy. He discusses the increasing importance of younger donors, how to engage your children in philanthropy, and the variety of ways to donate with The Columbus Foundati…
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Successful Entrepreneurs Solve Problems with Jamie Barlett from PolyPay
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Over the past year, we have had some great opportunities to delve into the issues of small businesses in Ohio….who owns them, how to get them started, how to grow them, and how or when to close them! Small businesses are the “lifeblood” of our American economy. Yet, in today’s markets, small businesses are suffering. A few weeks ago, we were partic…
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Central Ohio’s Infrastructure: Good news from MORPC
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We welcome back Thea Ewing! She is the Chief Regional Development Officer and Senior Director of Programming, Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC). Continued growth in Central Ohio calls for research, planning, and execution of strategies for the infrastructure of the region. We talk with Thea about... How MORPC deals with many functions t…
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Hiring in a Post-Pandemic Economy: How Employers Can Leverage Talent and Overcome Barriers
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We welcome back to the podcast Kelly Fuller, Vice President Talent and Workforce Development at the Columbus Chamber. The need for skilled/qualified applicants to fill the Columbus pipeline is critical right now. We provide you with an overview of the current Central Ohio workforce (interviewing/hiring/retention), particularly since the pandemic. I…
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Help Us Make The Best Podcast For You - Take Our Survey
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Thank you for supporting the Looking Forward Our Way Podcast Program [LFOW]. We ask for your assistance in our future planning through the completion of this survey, which will take approximately 3 minutes. Participation in this survey is voluntary; your answers and personal information will be kept completely confidential and cannot be linked back…
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Age-friendly projects have been created around the country. We talk with Marisa Sheldon, Director of Age-Friendly Columbus/Franklin County, and the Age-Friendly Innovation Center about the project's development here in Columbus. What is the current situation for older adults in Franklin County? What are their needs and requests? The role Age-Friend…
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Top Tips For Small Businesses in The New Year with Darlene Ziebell
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This year will be the year for small business growth. And we couldn't bring you a better expert on growing your small business than Darlene Ziebell, Prominent Entrepreneur, Business Consultant, and Business Strategy Specialist, and the author of “A Dozen Avalanches Threaten Small Business: Which One Will Bury You Alive?” In this episode, we will be…
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2022 Retrospect, The Best of Looking Forward Our Way (so far)
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We had an incredible year creating new and interesting episodes for Looking Forward Our Way podcast. Here are some of our favorites: Transportation doesn’t sound exciting – but Thea Ewing from MORPC always has the most interesting details on what’s getting built in our community and of course when we can expect passenger trains. Larae Schroeder has…
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Successful Job Searching in The New Year with Sharon Hamersley, The Resume and LinkedIn Coach
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Job searching in the new year will be like no other time in your career. We welcome Sharon Hamersley, The LinkedIn Coach and The Resume Coach to talk us through what will be important in a successful job search in the new year. You'll hear information on the issues that confront job seekers and what to expect in the new year. Plus we are focusing o…
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Tips To Grow Your Business in The New Year with Peggy Tidwell from Park National Bank
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The new year is fast approaching and economic issues are at the forefront. Today’s program features small business owners and the challenges they may be meeting in the new year. Park National Bank has one hundred years in banking with over 96 locations across Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and the Carolinas. We welcome Peggy Tidwell, who is the Vice Pres…
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The 2023 Ohio Business Outlook with Steve Stivers from the Ohio Chamber of Commerce
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We welcome back to the podcast Steve Stivers, President & CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. We spoke with him earlier, when he was just beginning his position with the Chamber. Now more than a year into the job, we get an update on what is happening in Ohio, and more detail on The Blueprint. The critical issue from the episode – supporting the g…
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