Inside Northwest Columbus

A Season of Creativity at the MAC

If you’re already thinking about how to make the most of summer—this is the episode to listen to before your calendar fills up. On this episode of Inside Northwest Columbus, we sit down with Kim Goodman, Executive Director of the McConnell Arts Center, to talk about the experiences, events, and creative opportunities happening right here in our community. From the Worthington Arts Festival to upcoming exhibits and hands-on classes for all ages, the MAC is offering more ways than ever to get out, try something new, and actually experience art—not just look at it. We get into what’s coming up this season, what’s worth planning ahead for, and how to take advantage of programs that most people don’t even realize are available. If you’re looking for something different to do this summer—something creative, local, and genuinely worth your time—this is your inside look at what to put on your calendar now. To explore what’s coming up or reserve your spot: Visit the MAC Events Calendar: https://mcconnellarts.org/events Browse Classes & Workshops: https://mcconnellarts.org/classes Learn more about the Worthington Arts Festival: worthingtonartsfestival.com Pro tip: Many classes and summer programs fill quickly—if something catches your eye, it’s worth signing up early. Become a member!

The Alchemy Shift: Rethinking What Makes a Home Beautiful

What if the most beautiful homes weren’t the most perfect—but the most personal? On this episode of Inside Northwest Columbus, we sit down with Jessica Brugger, founder and principal designer of Dwell Well Design Co., to explore a shift happening in design—one that moves away from perfection and toward meaning. As the creator of Design Alchemy, Jessica shares how homeowners are rethinking their spaces—from fully styled, “finished” rooms to homes that are layered, lived-in, and evolving over time. In this conversation, you’ll walk away with a new way to think about your home—how to start making more confident design decisions, how to layer pieces so your space actually tells your story, and how to create rooms that feel both elevated and comfortable without chasing trends. We also get into practical shifts you can make right away—what to stop doing, what to prioritize instead, and how to make your home feel more like you without starting from scratch. If your home looks good but doesn’t quite feel right, this will give you a completely different lens—and a few simple ways to start changing that immediately. This isn’t about trends. It’s about creating spaces that feel like you. DIY-er?  Great! But if you need help, call Jessica.  To download a copy of Design Alchemy 2026, please visit Jessica’s website. Where to Learn More Dwell Well Design Co. www.dwellwelldesignco.com

It’s Not Just About the Remodel—It’s About the Experience

Remodeling a home is often approached as a checklist — timelines, budgets, and finishes. But for most homeowners, the experience is far more personal than that. Today on Inside Northwest Columbus, we’re talking with Tammy Yee and James Cooley, the team behind Cooley Construction. Based in Worthington, they’ve built their company around a different philosophy — one that prioritizes collaboration, communication, and how the process feels just as much as the final result. From asking better questions at the start to thoughtfully assembling the right team of designers and architects, Tammy and James approach each project with intention. They understand that remodeling isn’t just a construction project — it’s a disruption to daily life, a series of decisions, and often, a deeply emotional experience for homeowners. In this conversation, we’re diving into what most people get wrong about remodeling, how to avoid common pitfalls, and why the right partner can completely transform not just your home — but your entire experience getting there. Want to know more about Cooley Construction? Visit their website at https://www.buildwithcooley.com or schedule a consultation by calling (614) 324-1865

Home, Divorce & Starting Over: Navigating During Life Transitions

Divorce is one of life’s most difficult transitions — emotionally, legally, and financially. But one of the biggest decisions couples must face during the process is often the home. Should it be sold? Should one spouse stay? When is the right time to move? And how do you make these decisions while navigating attorneys, court timelines, and financial uncertainty? Today on Inside Northwest Columbus, we’re talking with Sarah Thress, a real estate professional, author and founder of Thrive and Decide.  Sarah works with individuals and families during one of the most stressful seasons of life — helping them make clear, informed decisions about their home while coordinating with attorneys, financial professionals, and the legal process. She’s also the founder of The Thrive and Decide Podcast, a podcast designed to support women going through divorce, and the author of Simplifying Your First Home Purchase, a guide to helping buyers approach homeownership with clarity and confidence. Today’s conversation isn’t just about buying and selling real estate — it’s about navigating change, protecting financial stability, and rebuilding the next chapter of life. Thrive and Decide Podcast Red Frog Realty sarah.thress@redfrogrealty.com Phone: (614) 389-3400

Investing with Clarity: Why Modern Financial Planning Goes Beyond Investments

Money used to be simple — at least in theory. You saved, invested, and hoped the markets cooperated. But today, financial decisions are more complex than ever. Taxes, insurance, retirement income strategies, estate planning, and constantly changing regulations all influence whether a financial plan actually works. At the same time, technology has made investing easier and cheaper than ever before. Apps promise instant portfolios. Online tools claim to replace advisors entirely. So the question many people are asking is: Do you really need a financial advisor anymore? This week on Inside Northwest Columbus, we’re talking with Nathan Daugherty of NDF Financial Advisors, who explains how the role of a financial advisor has evolved — and why modern financial planning is about far more than picking investments. We explore how technology is transforming financial planning, why the most important value an advisor provides today is seeing the whole picture, and how working with a professional can help individuals and families make smarter decisions at every stage of life. If you've ever wondered whether you're making the right financial decisions — or whether you're missing something important — this conversation is for you. Nathan Daugherty, CFP® NDF Financial Advisors Nathan leads his advisory team based in Dublin and has more than 15 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate complex financial decisions. His practice focuses on comprehensive planning that integrates investments, taxes, protection strategies, and long-term goals into a cohesive financial strategy. Learn more: https://www.ndffinancialadvisors.com Phone: (614) 389-3400