We’re talking about the sensitive and essential topic of end-of-life options, an area many of us encounter as caregivers for family members, yet one that often leaves us searching for guidance and support.

We sit down with two expert guests: Molly McMahon Graziano, Director of Outreach for Ohio End of Life Options, and Kathleen Carmody, owner of Senior Matters Home Health Care and Consulting, a certified death Doula and dementia practitioner.

We explore the resources available for those facing terminal illness, clarify the distinctions between hospice and the evolving role of the death doula, and shed light on important legal and practical considerations.

The episode also touches on the deeply personal nature of dying. And how, with the right knowledge and support, families can honor their loved ones’ wishes while navigating the challenging end-of-life journey.

Whether you’re currently supporting someone at the end of life, considering how to start these tough conversations, or simply want to better understand the options available, this conversation offers practical insights, heartfelt stories, and a wealth of resources to help you plan with compassion and confidence.

3 Key Takeaways

Death Doulas Offer Practical & Emotional Support: Unlike hospice, death doulas can provide around-the-clock, highly personalized care for both the patient and family, addressing everything from hands-on support to legacy planning and navigating the complex emotional landscape that comes with losing a loved one.

Empowered Choices Begin with Conversation: States differ widely in what end-of-life options are available, but the most important tool is open dialogue. Family discussions, advance directives, and clear communication about wishes ensure loved ones’ preferences are heard and respected.

Proactive Planning Makes the Hardest Times Easier: Start planning before a crisis. Resources like palliative care consults, practical tools (hello, Next of Kin boxes!), and organizations like Ohio End of Life Options and national groups (e.g., Compassion & Choices) are key to navigating care, easing burdens, and ensuring dignity for everyone involved.

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 "Founding Senior Matters Home Care"

06:51 "Dying with Dignity at Home"

07:33 Ohio End of Life Options Founded

11:13 Home Care's Role in End-of-Life

16:10 Support for Caregivers and Doulas

18:24 Prepared for Parental Loss

24:00 Advocating for Transparent Medical Information

28:33 "Encouraging Palliative Care Consultations"

32:28 "Clarifying U.S. Medical Aid Laws"

37:06 "Hospice Enrollment and Aid in Dying"

39:57 "Start Conversations on End-of-Life"

42:04 Planning Elder Care Options

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We discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Central Ohio as the region experiences rapid—yet manageable—growth.

Our special guest, Adam Porr, the Research and Data Officer for the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC), joins us to demystify how strategic planning helps drive sustainable development in everything from transportation and housing to air quality and infrastructure.

We’ll explore how MORPC’s collaborative efforts shape the future of our region, what goes on behind the scenes in massive projects like the 70/71 Split, and why data-driven decision making is at the heart of it all. From understanding complex issues like zoning and affordable housing to innovative programs like LinkUS and Zone In, Adam shares his unique journey from engineer to urban planner and discusses how community input plays a vital role in building a thriving Central Ohio.

Whether you're navigating traffic congestion, concerned about housing options, or interested in creating a more sustainable community, this conversation will give you a deeper look at the planning process keeping Central Ohio moving forward. Plus, find out how you can get involved and make your voice heard. Let's get started!

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 for anyone passionate about urban development, community growth, or the future of Central Ohio:

Collaboration Drives Regional Success: MORPC is not a legislative body, but rather a catalyst, bringing together local governments to plan, fund, and coordinate critical transportation and infrastructure projects for sustainable growth.

Data-Informed Decisions Shape Our Future: The MORPC team leverages detailed data analysis to guide major projects, from air quality monitoring to long-term transportation and housing plans. These insights help communities adapt proactively to trends like population surges and economic shifts.

Community Voices Matter: Through programs like Leaders Listen, MORPC actively seeks input from residents and stakeholders. This feedback influences everything from transit corridors to affordable housing strategies—so your voice truly helps shape the future of Central Ohio.

Moments

00:00 Urban Life's Eye-Opening Impact

07:02 Complexity of Urban Planning

10:48 Metropolitan Transportation Plans Overview

16:32 "Managing Modest Growth Rates"

22:03 "Leaders Listen: Annual Public Survey"

31:24 "Link Us: Bus Rapid Transit Plan"

36:50 Central Ohio's Transit-Centric Development Plan

40:22 Complex Zoning Hinders Urban Growth

43:18 Advocating for Missing Middle Housing

52:02 Building Codes Impact on Housing Crisis

57:11 Central Ohio Population Change Factors

58:51 Columbus: Attract Migrants to Grow

01:07:08 Novice-Friendly Bike Routes Initiative

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

We are joined by career expert Sharon Hamersley, known to many as the LinkedIn and Resume Coach. Together, we talk about the complex world of job searching, especially for those who've spent years in their careers and now face a rapidly changing job market.

From recognizing the early warning signs that your job might be at risk, to crafting a job search strategy, and making the most of professional networks and community resources, this episode is packed with practical advice for job seekers of all ages.

Whether you're navigating an unexpected layoff, planning your next career move, or considering retirement but not quite ready to stop working, Sharon's insights will help you take control, stay prepared, and approach your next step with confidence.

Plus, we highlight how resources like libraries, state agencies, and networking can empower you on your journey. Grab a notebook because this episode is full of actionable tips to make your job search more successful and less overwhelming.

Whether you’re thinking about a career move, worried about stability, or planning for retirement, this episode packs real-world advice you can put to use right now. Here are our top 3 takeaways:

• Stay Ready, Not Paranoid: Don’t wait for a crisis. Regularly update your resume, LinkedIn profile, and keep notes on your skills, achievements, and networking connections, never on your work computer!
• Networking is Research, Not Begging: True networking isn’t about asking for a job, it’s about gathering information and advice, expanding your perspective, and forming mutually beneficial connections. Start by reaching out to alumni groups, professional organizations, and even local volunteering opportunities.
• Use Community Resources: Libraries, state/county agencies, and nonprofits like Goodwill are goldmines for free career services, workshops, databases, and upskilling opportunities (like LinkedIn Learning via your library).

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

05:12 Reorganization and Leadership Change

08:59 "Layoff Risks for All Levels"

12:04 "Prepare for Unexpected Job Changes"

14:53 Career Evaluation Strategy

16:38 Job Search: Avoid Desperation

20:16 Choosing Your Ideal Work Environment

23:33 Columbus Library's Career Resources

29:24 Building Connections Through Volunteering

30:38 Reach Out: Networking Beyond Management

35:03 Concise Resume & Cover Letter Tips

39:49 Essential Record Keeping Tips

43:07 "Applicant's Diligence Secures Job"

44:54 Expand Networks Through Informational Interviews

48:35 Preparedness Key for Job Assistance

53:17 Vet and Upskill for Employment

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We sit down with the multi-talented Eric Gnezda—an award-winning singer-songwriter, storyteller, and the creative force behind PBS’s Songs At The Center. Broadcasting from Columbus, Ohio, and airing on over 400 PBS stations nationwide, Songs at the Center celebrates the power of music and the often unsung art of songwriting.

Eric opens up about his journey from radio and newspaper columns to producing and hosting a nationally syndicated TV series. He shares how humor and heartfelt honesty shape his songwriting, the pivotal lessons he’s learned from both the music industry and personal challenges, and why he believes music is a profound healing art.

We explore the evolution of musical storytelling, the unexpected road to launching a beloved television show, and the importance of authenticity in art and life. Plus, Eric offers a backstage look into the show’s origins, memorable guest moments, upcoming highlights, and his thoughts on guiding the next generation of songwriters.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, community, and the magic that happens when music brings people together.

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 "Self-Discovery at 30"

10:17 "Nashville's Geographic Influence"

13:58 Music as Healing Art

16:22 Healing Through Songwriting

24:51 Amusing Financial Adviser Visit

28:31 Songwriters' Unique Renditions

35:15 Annex Memories and Song Lyrics

41:50 Internet's Impact on Music Industry

45:28 Music Creation Democratized

50:57 "Encore Careers and New Opportunities"

57:48 The Power of Songwriting Stories

01:01:15 Listen and Learn for Songwriting

Our top 3 takeaways:

• Say Yes to Opportunities—Even Unpaid Ones: Eric’s early career was defined by seizing every chance, paid or not, which opened doors in radio, TV, and print. Experience and learning often outweigh immediate income in the long run.
• Authenticity Creates Impact: Eric shared how blending humor and vulnerability in his songwriting didn’t just shape his music—it created space for healing and authentic connection, both for himself and his audience.
• Build Your Own Stage: Instead of waiting for permission or the “right place,” Eric launched "Songs at the Center" right in Columbus, Ohio. By owning his platform, he brought national exposure to local creativity, proving it’s not where you build. It's what you build.

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

Recorded in...

We sit down with returning guest Ben Hoeger, Director at the Hedley Hoeger Group at Baird Private Wealth Management, to help us navigate the unpredictable world of personal finance. With the stock market experiencing constant ups and downs, rising interest rates, and ongoing uncertainty about retirement savings, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed about securing your financial future.

Ben brings his decades of experience and a passion for guiding clients through both the good times and the bad, sharing practical tips on building—and, more importantly, maintaining—a financial plan that works for your unique situation. From the importance of having a solid, adaptable plan to understanding how your values and “why” shape your financial decisions, Ben helps break down complex topics like tax strategies, saving vs. spending, and the emotional side of money.

Whether you’re just starting your career, eyeing retirement, or somewhere in between, this episode is packed with actionable advice and a reassuring reminder: information, planning, and the right guidance can help you weather any financial storm. So grab a notebook and get ready to learn how to cushion the blows, protect your future, and feel more confident about your money, no matter what the headlines say.

Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone keen on building financial stability:

• Personalization is Everything: There’s no one-size-fits-all plan. Financial strategies must be anchored in your unique values, history, and life goals. Understanding your “why” helps you stay the course—no matter what the markets do.
• Planning Is a Verb, Not a Noun: A financial plan isn’t a one-and-done document. Life changes—so should your plan. Treat it as a living guide and make ongoing adjustments to reflect both your current reality and future vision.
• Build Strong Moats Around Your Castle: Protect yourself from volatility by diversifying not only your investments, but your tax buckets and income sources. Secure “moats” like sufficient cash reserves and flexible insurance solutions are crucial, especially as you approach retirement.

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 Moments

06:23 Tailored Financial Strategies Vary

07:56 "Root Goals in Personal Values"

11:46 Balancing Financial Planning and Life

17:24 "Evolving Plans: Resumes & Finances"

21:25 "Crisis as Opportunity"

22:31 Career Crisis Perspective and Adaptation

27:21 Retirement Expenses and Tax Planning

31:07 Values-Based Financial Planning

32:41 Dynamic Financial Planning Essentials

35:58 Retirement Readiness Essentials

40:46 Generational Team Commitment Benefits

44:10 Establishing Trust: Addressing Conflicts

48:10 Financial Advisors' Due Diligence Explained

48:55 Building a Comprehensive Professional Network

We would love to hear from you.

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We welcome Charity Eilerman, manager of Senior Hunger Programs at the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, to discuss the organization's remarkable efforts to support Ohioans facing food insecurity.

Since 1980, the Mid-Ohio Food Collective has been a crucial part of the community, providing nourishing meals and supportive services to those in need. Charity shares her extensive background in social services and her passion for addressing senior hunger and nutrition.

We explore various programs and services offered by the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, including the unique "farmacy" program that connects patients to fresh food options through health clinics, the Mid-Ohio Kitchen's freshly prepared healthy meals, and the Mid-Ohio markets providing a grocery shopping experience with a focus on fresh foods.

Charity also highlights the impact of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), which delivers shelf-stable boxes of food to seniors, and the Senior Mobile Market bringing fresh produce directly to senior housing communities.

We discuss the challenges and opportunities of navigating eligibility for programs like SNAP and CSFP, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between agencies to meet the vast needs of the community. The upcoming Eastland Prosperity Center, a human services hub, is another exciting development that will house various programs and services for increased accessibility.

Volunteerism and community involvement play crucial roles in the success of the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, relying on dedicated volunteers and generous donors to fulfill its mission of ending hunger one nourishing meal at a time.

What You'll Learn:

1. The Evolution of the Mid-Ohio Food Collective: Discover how this community pillar has grown from its early days as a food bank into a comprehensive collective with diverse programs.
2. Holistic Approaches to Fighting Hunger: Charity shares how addressing food insecurity involves more than just providing meals – it's about nurturing the whole community.
3. The Power of Collaboration: Learn how working alongside over 630 partner agencies strengthens the collective’s mission and impacts countless lives.
4. Senior Hunger and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Understand the unique challenges faced by seniors and how programs like CSFP are making a difference.
5. Innovative Solutions and Community Initiatives: From "farmacies" to farming, discover the creative programs supporting food stability and community health.

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 Moments

06:30 "Explaining Food Bank vs. Pantry"

09:10 "Collaborative Nonprofit Efforts in Ohio"

12:17 Healthy Food Access Program

16:27 SNAP Support for Struggling Families

18:07 Mid-Ohio Collaborative Service Hub

22:19 Program Expansion Eases Senior Isolation

24:33 Senior Mobile Markets for Accessibility

27:46 Maximizing Food Resources for Seniors

31:53 Help Needed: Volunteers and Donors

36:04 Community Gardening and Cooking Groups

38:04 Mid-Ohio Food Collective Insights

We would love to hear from you.

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Here’s the heart of this episode in a nutshell:

This “Looking Forward Our Way” episode is all about helping Ohioans make sense of their utility bills and understand their rights as utility customers. We sit down with Kathryn Metz from the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC)—basically the state’s watchdog and advocate for regular folks when it comes to utilities like electricity, gas, water, and even landline phones.

Why should anyone care? Because utilities are something we all have to deal with, and lately, the costs and choices just keep getting more complicated (and expensive).

The OCC isn’t just there for emergencies—they’re fighting every day so you don’t get overcharged, educating you about your options (like how to shop for energy and avoid sneaky contracts), and making sure vulnerable Ohioans (seniors, people with tight budgets) can get help paying bills when they’re struggling. They even break down confusing bills and warn about energy scams that pop up every time prices go up.

The episode also dishes on hot topics like the fallout from the House Bill 6 scandal (where Ohio residents ended up footing the bill for a shady energy bailout), the crazy impact of new data centers using tons of electricity, and issues with submetered utilities that can make your bills skyrocket without many protections.

Bottom line: If you pay for utilities in Ohio, this is stuff you need to know so you can protect your wallet, avoid scams, and make smart choices about your energy. The OCC is there to help, but step one is staying informed—and that’s exactly what this episode is all about.

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 three key takeaways for every Ohioan:

OCC Is Your Advocate: The OCC was established in 1976 to serve as an independent voice for Ohio's residential utility consumers, helping save billions by holding utility companies accountable and ensuring fair pricing.

Know Your Options—And Your Bill: Ohioans can shop for energy suppliers, but staying with your utility’s standard offer is often the most cost-effective choice. Always read your bill closely—delivery and supply charges are different, and misinformation or scams can lead to costly mistakes.

Beware of Scammers & Protect Your Info: Never share your utility account number freely—it should be as protected as your Social Security number. Beware of aggressive door-to-door marketers and unintended contract changes. You can request to be put on a utility "Do Not Contact" list for extra protection.

Key Moments

00:00 Journey from Humanitarian Aid to Teaching

03:57 Ohio Utility Consumer Advocacy Agency

07:53 Ohio Summer Cooling Assistance Program

11:52 AEP Rate Increase Alternatives

15:19 "Compare Ohio Energy Suppliers Easily"

19:04 Traveling Speakers Share Critical Info

21:29 Ohio's Costly Coal Plant Subsidies

24:57 Ohio Data Centers Settlement Decision

27:30 Beware of Energy Market Scams

30:03 Protect Your Utility Account Number

33:24 Utility Scams and Submetering Issues

36:37 Future Uncertainty for LIHEAP Funding

39:07 Ohio Energy Aggregation Rate Changes

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