In this episode, we look into the pressing issue of the housing crisis and its impact on property taxes in Ohio. Joining us is Ohio State Senator Bill DeMora of the 25th District, who shares his journey from being the "accidental senator" to his current role in public office.

Together, we dissect the challenges posed by skyrocketing housing costs and lack of availability, leading to a dramatic 35% increase in property taxes following a recent reappraisal process. Senator DeMora provides insight into the complex property tax system, touching on the intricacies of state and local revenue impacts, as well as the pivotal role taxes play in supporting essential community services such as schools, fire departments, and police.

Our discussion also highlights the crucial need for legislative action to address these taxing issues, as citizens grapple with burdensome levies while demanding fair solutions.

We encourage you to get involved in the political process, be it through testifying in committees or participating in local government meetings, further underlining the importance of civic engagement in instituting change.

If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!

Key Takeaways

• Understanding Property Taxes: How the rise in housing costs and lack of availability have sparked a significant increase in property taxes. Senator DeMora explained the appraisal process affecting both personal and business properties.
• Legislation & Relief Efforts: The need for practical solutions to address the tax burden, like the suggested circuit breaker, raising the homestead exemption, and freezing property taxes for seniors. It's crucial for legislative action to keep pace with the changing demands.
• Civic Engagement: The importance of getting involved in local government processes. From testifying at committee hearings to participating in city council meetings, citizen engagement can influence policy changes and bring attention to vital community issues.

Key Moments

00:00 Accidental Senator Due to Redistricting

03:23 State's Funding Shift Sparks Controversy

09:11 Civic Participation in Government

10:50 "Children's Hearing Aid Bill Passed"

14:53 County Property Tax Distribution

16:41 Franklin County Housing Demand Surge

20:48 Races Influence Ballot Issues Outcome

23:38 "Addressing Property Tax Relief Options"

28:15 Central Ohio's Collaborative Economic Strategy

29:36 Intel Project's Uncertain Future

36:03 Property Tax Reforms Needed

37:10 Ohio School Funding and Voucher Impact

40:16 Ohio's Declining Education Funding

45:54 Columbus School Board Overhaul

49:16 Franklin County Grants and Resources

51:19 Columbus Demands Suburbs Support Affordable Housing

54:36 Addressing Property Tax and Housing Issues

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Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com.

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In this episode we welcome back Tammy Wharton, President and CEO of Girl Scouts of Ohio's Heartland, to give an update on the Dream Big initiative and the new STEM Leadership Center at Camp Ken-Jockety.

Tammy shares the excitement surrounding the opening of the building and its functional purpose, emphasizing that it serves not only the girls but also the wider community and youth in Central Ohio.

Top takeaways

1. STEM Leadership Center: The Girl Scouts of Ohio's Heartland has opened a STEM Leadership Center, fulfilling the Dream Big program's promise of promoting STEM education for young girls in Central Ohio.
2. Dream Big Initiative: The program started in 2018, aiming to put 2.5 million girls in the STEM pipeline by 2025. It's a transformational step aimed at providing immersive STEM experiences.
3. Community Engagement: The STEM Leadership Center is for all children and community members in Central Ohio, offering various programs and collaborations with schools and community groups.
4. Ohio State of the Girl Report: This report, created by Girl Scout councils across Ohio, addresses the challenges girls face and includes actionable steps for teachers, caregivers, and mentors to support them.
5. Digital Literacy: A significant focus is on teaching girls digital literacy, as many challenges such as cyberbullying are linked to technology use.
6. Importance of Physical Activity: Limiting screen time and encouraging outdoor physical activities are vital for improving girls' physical and mental well-being.
7. Combating Bullying: Strategies to combat bullying include establishing supportive connections with caring adults and providing anti-bullying education in schools.
8. Economic and Social Importance of STEM for Girls: Recruiting more women into STEM fields is critical for the workforce, as women make up over 50% of the population but are underrepresented in STEM.
9. Hands-On Learning at the STEM Center: Programs at the center are designed to provide girls with hands-on learning opportunities, like building a dollhouse with a 3D printer, and showcasing potential career paths.
10. Building Confidence and Support Networks: It's crucial for girls to build self-confidence and have supportive networks to improve academic success, fight bullying, and create a positive body image.

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

04:10 Investing Early in Girls' STEM

07:29 "Essential Report for Educators"

11:52 Unrealistic Beauty Standards in Media

15:59 Promote Anti-Bullying Education

20:09 Empowering Girls Through Construction Skills

23:32 "Embrace Failure to Succeed"

27:15 Building Confidence to Prevent Bullying

29:58 Boosting Women in STEM

33:51 Empowering Gold Award Girl Scouts

39:46 Observations on Booth Interactions

42:16 Outdoor Classroom for All Schools

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We look into the complex and often misunderstood concept of retirement with the guidance of expert guest, Eric Pennington. As the managing partner of Spirit of EQ and author of "The Well-being Guide," Eric brings a unique perspective on the emotional intelligence required to face retirement's challenges and opportunities.

Together, we explore the fear and misconceptions surrounding retirement, the pressure from societal norms and marketing, and the essential resources needed for a fulfilling post-career life.

Eric emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, building emotional intelligence, and preparing mentally and physically for this new chapter.

Whether you're nearing retirement age or just starting to consider your future, this episode offers valuable insights on redefining retirement and creating a meaningful and purposeful life beyond traditional career paths. We uncover the myths of retirement and learn how to navigate the emotional journey toward this next adventure.

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 from our conversation:

• Rewire Your Mindset: Your brain is capable of being rewired, even as you approach retirement. Building emotional intelligence is crucial to facing retirement without fear. Embrace the idea of lifelong growth and redefine what retirement means to you.
• Build Your Resources: Whether it’s financial savings, health, or emotional support, start building your resources now. Remember, this isn't just about money. Focus on mental, physical, and emotional well-being to prepare for a fulfilling journey ahead.
• Curiosity and Purpose: Never stop asking questions about your purpose and emotional experiences. Cultivate curiosity and explore what genuinely matters to you, so that when the time comes, you know what your next step will be.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Developing Emotional Intelligence with Data

06:00 "Evolved Minds, Ancient Instincts"

07:51 Marketing and the "Not Enough" Culture

12:49 Challenging Age-Related Cultural Norms

14:17 "Age is Just a Number"

18:22 Retirement Planning and Adaptation

22:39 Defining Life's Next Journey

27:18 "Defining Life's Purpose"

28:09 "Post-Retirement Purpose Dilemma"

31:19 Exploring Self-Knowledge and Growth

36:55 Reflecting on Career Preferences

40:02 Weekend Retreat for Self-Discovery

42:50 "Empowerment Beyond Retirement Age"

46:00 "The Power of Curiosity"

48:37 Timely Adaptation Challenges

53:26 "Building Your Resource Pillars"

57:40 Insights on Thinking Fast and Slow

59:05 "Lisa Feldman Barrett Books"

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Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com.

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