Protecting What Matters: A Podcast by the Ohio Department of Commerce: Recent Episodes
Ohio Department of Commerce
The Ohio Department of Commerce is the state’s chief regulatory agency with a specific focus on consumer protection. We issue more than 600,000 licenses, permits, registrations, and certifications each year in various professions, industries, and commercial enterprises. We have a vital role in keeping people, property, and assets safe. From real estate to fireworks, banks to construction, and more, this podcast is a resource for businesses, families, and individuals that want to protect what matters most in their life.
In this episode of Protecting What Matters, experts from our Division of Securities Enforcement Section talk about the cryptocurrency landscape. Our experts uncover ways to safeguard your investments and keep you informed with the latest safety protocols in the crypto markets. We explore the critical aspects of crypto safety through thelens of regulatory oversight and best practices for consumers. Make sure you listen to this episode before you start to invest! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned investor, stay informed about the latest in the world of crypto and risk management strategies to protect your assets.
Join us as we celebrate year three for Protecting What Matters. We’re talking about all things Ohio State Fair, from giveaways and how to win a prize. Plus, learn more about the Ohio Governor’s Imagination Library and how kids from birth to age 5 can get 1 free book each month. Get ready to immerse yourself in an exciting visit to the Commerce House! We invite you to join us at the Ohio State Fair, beginning on Wednesday, July 24 and running through August 4. The Commerce team is all set to engage and enlighten Ohio families across various areas of our work, offering valuable education, volunteer opportunities, and a chance to uncover treasures and delights.
In this episode, we discuss Ohio's new Building Standards codes for the Mechanical and Plumbing industries and what that means for Ohio's construction landscape. Join us as we talk with Board of Building Standards Chair Tim Galvinto discuss critical changes and share examples of how these regulations play a crucial role in our lives while providing valuable insight into the safety of Ohioans, businesses, and the construction industry. Click here to learn more about the 2024 Ohio Building Code Rules.
Join us in this educating episode as we delve into an important partnership between the Ohio Division of Real Estate and the Ohio Housing Finance Agency. Discover how this partnership benefits not only consumers seeking affordable housing solutions but also empowers real estate professionals with the resources and support they need to thrive in a competitive housing market. From innovative initiatives to collaborative efforts, shapingOhio's real estate landscape, explore how these agencies are working hand in hand to build a brighter future for communities across the state.
Resources:
Ohio's Home Buyers Guide
Ohio Housing Finance Agency
Exploring Ohio's DORA - we invite listeners to into the world of Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas (DORAs) just in time for summer. As warmer weather increases,we’re outdoors to dine, shop, and connect with our communities, at events and festivals throughout Ohio. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, you understand the creation and evolution of DORAs and hear how they have become vibrant spaces in some communities. Tune in and discover how DORAs are not just about refreshment but also essential to the essence of community and outdoor enjoyment.
In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we’re helpingOhioans navigate the complex process of selecting the right mortgage lender and real estate professional. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasonedhomeowner, we provide invaluable insights and tips to help ensure you make informed decisions and have access to the resources you need to protect what matters most— with your finances and home. Experts from the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Financial Institutions and Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing provide important steps to help you both before and during your next home purchase. Check out our valuable resources by visiting: com.ohio.gov/Mortgageand com.ohio.gov/HomeBuyersGuide
In the spirit of spring, a season synonymous with renewal and tidying up, the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of State Fire Marshal's Fire Prevention Bureau reminds you that spring cleaning and fire safety go hand-in-hand. We’ll walk you through what you need to know as you clean up your home. #Ohio #OhioCommerce#OhioFire #ProtectingWhatMatters #NewPodcast #Podcast #FireSafety
Financial fraud and identity theft continues to be a pressing issue for consumers across the country and here in Ohio. In this episode, we break down the Federal TradeCommission Consumer Sentinel Network Report, revealing the shocking reality that consumers nationwide lost an alarming $10 billion to fraud in 2023. Ohio ranked 26th in the country, with $154 million in losses to Ohioans last year. The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Financial Institutions Office of Consumer Affairs Program Administrator, Viktoria Jurkovic, sheds light on these alarming trends and provides consumers, like you, with the resources and tools essential in making smart financial decisions. Check out some of our free consumer resources by visiting: com.ohio.gov/consumers
The Ohio Department of Commerce produced this episode for National Consumer Protection Week, but the tips and educational content are good for you and your family year-round! Assistant Director Charity Robl explains all the different ways we protect Ohio’s consumers, help them make more confident decisions, and take decisive action in many areas of their life
Ohio’s Division of Unclaimed Funds Claims Examiner, Supervisor Anitra Davis, answers frequently asked questions about finding, filing, and claiming your missing money. Hear testimonials from other Ohioans about their experience with claiming unclaimed funds. The Commerce Department’s Division of Unclaimed Funds is holding almost $4 billion in unclaimed funds waiting to be claimed. Part of this stash could be yours. Visit unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov to search and see if you have unclaimed funds today!
Business owners and consumers around the state of Ohio have questions about the Division of Cannabis Control’s first set of proposed rules. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we sit down with Superintendent Jim Canepa and the division’s chief counsel Andrew Makoski to talk through who can receive licenses, the timeline for awarding licenses, and why it remains a benefit to be a medical marijuana patient. For more information on this new division within Commerce, please visit our FAQ.
We explore Ohio's Video Service Authorization Program in this podcast, you’ll discover what we do for cable customers who are having issues with their cable providers.
Linda Pausch, our program administrator, shares when we can help consumers, how to contact us and the step-by-step process of filing a complaint. Learn more by visiting, com.ohio.gov/vsa
Whether you're a business owner seeking certification or an everyday Ohioan curious about how safety standards are upheld in our state, the Bureau of Testing and Registration is your go-to resource. With a commitment to transparency, efficiency, and above all, the safety of Ohioans, the Bureau works tirelessly to make its services easily understandable and reachable for all.
On January 1, 2024, Ohio’s minimum wage will increase to $10.45 for non-tipped employees and $5.25 for tipped employees. In this episode, our Bureau of Wage and Hour Chief Steve Clegg talks about how the minimum is set year-to-year, what employees and businesses need to know as it increases, and how the Bureau of Wage and Hour works to ensure Ohioans are paid for the hours that they work. For more information, please visit https://com.ohio.gov/divisions-and-programs/industrial-compliance/wage-and-hour
Our Division of Financial Institutions Consumer Affairs Manager Viktoria Jurkovic, talks about strategies, tips and tricks for educating your kids this holiday season. We discuss how to approach gift giving with your kids in a financially focused way. Join us for an educational discussion on how to ensure the whole family is happy without breaking the bank, and stay on top of your finances while celebrating. Listen now!
From stuffed toys to your Halloween decorations, the OhioDepartment of Commerce is working to keep you safe this Halloween and all year round. On this episode of Protecting What Matters, hear how Division of Industrial Compliance’s Bedding Section ensures the safety of stuffed toys and bedding items, and hear valuable Halloween safety information from the Divisionof State Fire Marshal.
The Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal Fire & Explosion Investigations Bureau’s mission is to combat the crime of arson. Arson is a destructive act which involves setting fire to property and can result in devastating consequences, including loss of life, property damage, and economic loss. The intentional setting of fires can cause fear and terror and/or can be used to intimidate or harm communities. In this episode, you’ll learn about why CSI-style TV shows aren’t a total picture of investigations, why arson dogs may get on a treadmill, how Ring doorbells are making a difference, and much more.
Join us in this episode as we explore the Volunteer Fire Service Task Force Report, packed with innovative recommendations to bolster Ohio's volunteer fire departments. Discover how these proposals focus on recruitment, training, and financial stability to support Ohio’s communities.
September is Realtor Safety Month! We're dedicated to ensuring real estate professionals have the tools and knowledge to stay safe while helping Ohio homebuyers find their dream home. DaphneHawk, superintendent from Commerce’s real estate and professional licensing division, and Ralph Mantica, president of Ohio Realtors, talks about how and why safety plays a significant role in real estate work right now and truly year-round. Listen in to learn some safety tips and resources to help keep everyone safe in the homebuying process.
Wait until you hear some of these stories from those who found money! The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Unclaimed Funds is holding nearly $4 billion in unclaimed funds. Hear from the division’s experts on how the money is collected and how you can get it back into your pockets.
Whether at the Ohio State Fair, online, or at one of our OHLQ locations, using technology to fairly distribute popular bourbon products has elevated the Ohio Liquor brand and the popularity of the OHLQ bottle lotteries. Hear from Division of Liquor Superintendent Jim Canepa how selling high-proof spirits in a fair and equitable way are the top priority of Ohio Liquor – and how you can be the first to know about these unique opportunities. https://www.ohlq.com/ohlq-hub/ohlq-sign-up
Come out and celebrate our 1-year anniversary of our educational and outreach show, Protecting What Matters. We share important details of how our work saves lives and protects people and their property through our regulation. We strive to be helpful, honest and a trustworthy government agency to make sure Ohioans, all visitors, and businesses are safe and thriving. Again, come celebrate everything that our great state offers at the Ohio State Fair July 26 – Aug. 6, 2023! Remember you can always connect with us by visiting: com.ohio.gov
June is National Homeownership Month! We want to ensure every Ohioan has access to the resources and information in the homebuying or selling process. We’ve partnered with Ohio Realtors to discuss the important role licensed real estate professionals play in shaping communities across Ohio and the consumer benefits of working with a licensed professional. For more information, please visit: com.ohio.gov/real
Minor Labor Laws are in place to protect Ohio teens who enter the workforce from hazardous occupations and to ensure they have restricted hours, appropriate breaks, and wage agreements. Outreach Educator Steve Clegg shares the step-by-step process for teens looking to obtain a work permit and the many other roles the Bureau of Wage & Hour plays in the Ohio workforce. To learn more, visit: https://com.ohio.gov/divisions-and-programs/industrial-compliance/wage-and-hour
If you plan to visit your loved one in an Ohio cemetery, we're sharing everything you need to know if you are concerned about the maintenance and upkeep. The Cemetery Section of our Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing works with the Ohio Cemetery Dispute Resolution Commission to regulate cemeteries and resolve disputes between cemeteries and families. If you have a concern and are unable to resolve the issue with the cemetery operator, you can file a complaint for us to review by visiting: https://com.ohio.gov/static/documents/real_COM3660CemeteryComplaintForm.pdf
The burn ban is in place to protect Ohioans property, environment and even their lives - Remember, outdoor fires can quickly turn dangerous if not properly managed. So, whether you're roasting marshmallows or flipping burgers, make sure to keep safety in mind. You can learn more at the Fire Prevention section of our website at com.ohio.gov/FireSafety or visit forestry.ohiodnr.gov for more information on ODNR’s Division of Forestry
Ohio Liquor strives to be a trusted and accurate source of information about alcohol safety and responsibility. While April may bedesignated as Alcohol Awareness Month, for OHLQ, alcohol awareness is a year-round campaign. Tune in as OHLQ Brand &Marketing Strategy Manager Kristen Castle and Director of Corporate Social Responsibility Brian Hoyt share information andresources for consumers, parents, and party hosts. For more information, visit https://www.ohlq.com/ohlq-cares/ohlq-cares.
Learn how liquor laws are enforced in Ohio and the state agencies that work with bars, restaurants, and other liquor permit holders to keep environments and products safe for all those who choose to enjoy beverages that contain alcohol.
We’re sharing key factors and resources that can help or hurt your credit score for National Credit Education Month. Learn the difference between a credit report and credit score, how long an issue can stay on your report, how to save money with your score, and how a joint account can impact your score- plus a lot more!
20-40% of all preventable fire deaths are related to smoking. Specifically, smoking while on oxygen, smoking while tired or medicated, and discarding cigarettes in an unapproved container. The division of State Fire Marshal is alarmed at the number of preventable fire fatalities across Ohio. We must work together to bring these tragic numbers down.
The Division of Unclaimed Funds wants to reunite Ohioans with their forgotten money and is making a special push for that in February. The Division is safeguarding more than $3 billion in unclaimed money and property in Ohio. Some of it may belong to you or your loved ones. February 1st in National Unclaimed Funds Day. In this episode of Protecting what Matters, Outreach Program Manager Susie Wagner explains what you could find if you come and claim your money. For more information, visit: unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov
Looking to buy a new home in 2023? Want to know how the homebuying process works? In this episode of Protecting What Matters we're helping you every step of the way as you buy a home- including how to select a real estate agent, lender, and more. For more information visit com.ohio.gov/real
It's a new year! Did you make a resolution that had to do with money? Many people did, and in this episode of Protecting What Matters we're helping you review your spending and investing habits and create a better plan for 2023. From the performance of your 401(k) and turning it around in the new year to knowing how to review what you spent last year and creating a better budget amid inflation, we have advice you can't afford to miss with our experts! For more details visit: https://bit.ly/OhioCommerceUnderstandingFinances
The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal distributes millions of dollars in grant funding each year to fire departments across the state. This support leads to better equipment, apparatus and technology to better protect Ohio’s communities. Learn more about the grant and loan programs on our website at com.ohio.gov/grants.
You’ve probably not put a lot of thought into how you’re protected when you buy bedding, upholstered furniture and stuffed toys- but Commerce is critical in keeping you in-the-know and safe within this massive industry. In this episode we’re tackling all the items in your house that are… stuffed! Including those presents you’re about to give during the holidays!
Are you concerned materials inside a product you purchased? If so, email ohiobedding@com.ohio.gov to file a complaint.
'Tis the season for holiday shopping and, unfortunately, scams. With a longer shopping season, and an increase in budget-focused consumers, scammers are working overtime. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, our Division of Financial Institutions' shares ways to protect yourself from potential financial fraud. See additional financial literacy resources at the Division's Office of Consumer Affairs webpage: https://bit.ly/OCAResources
With Fall arriving that means three big holidays are just around the corner – Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas – and with them comes some associated fire risks. The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal provides prevention resources to keep families safe this time of year. You’ll find best practices in this latest episode and additional fire prevention resources at the State Fire Marshal’s website: com.ohio.gov/fire
OHLQ brings you the people and passion behind some of your favorite spirits – from a fourth-generation Ohio farmer to award-winning distilleries. The Seed to Sip series reminds us that found in every glass of your favorite spirit is a story of agriculture, art, and science. https://bit.ly/3UY9qg7
For many students, going away to college gives them the freedom to make their own choices, but when it comes to living in on and off-campus housing, it’s important for students and their parents to keep safety top of mind. During this Campus Safety Month, Ohio’s Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal provides prevention resources to keep students safe. See additional fire prevention resources at the State Fire Marshal’s website: com.ohio.gov/fire
September is National Realtor Safety Month. We’re sharing important information on how to sell your home with safety in mind. We provide some practices to our licensed salespersons in an effort to keep everyone safe in the home buying/selling process. For more information please, visit our website www.com.ohio.gov/real .
Our new campaign, Recovery Within Reach helps educate both consumers and financial advisers about the costs involved with opioid treatment. We want to get Ohio families into treatment and help them navigate the financial aspects of that process by working with a licensed financial adviser. Some people are digging themselves into financial holes paying for treatment and other costs related to addiction, and are unaware of the available resources. Others don't know where to go or how they will pay for treatment. We want our Ohio financial advisers to be able to spot client families in need and then guide them to affordable treatment options in their area. Our interactive map is a resource for anyone looking for help. For more information, visit: https://recoverywithinreach.ohio.gov/
Learn about the Ohio Task Force on Volunteer Fire Service from State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon and Superintendent Jack Smith from the Ohio Fire Academy. Ohio has 1180 fire departments. Approximately 70% of the fire of those departments are staffed by volunteers.
The Division of Unclaimed Funds wants to reunite Ohioans with their forgotten money. The Division is safeguarding more than $3 billion in unclaimed money and property in Ohio. Some of it may belong to you. In this episode of Protecting what Matters, Outreach Program Manager Susie Wagner explains how you can get ahold of your missing money and walks you through the easy process of claiming it. For more information, visit: unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov
In this episode of Protecting What Matters, you’ll learn how OHLQ’s work is creating energy and conversation around the social responsibility movement. While our agency plays a role in the sales of liquor in the state of Ohio, our license to operate is through important conversations, resources, and even mocktail recipes that we share with consumers. Learn how to access all of those items through this segment.
How do you know you’re getting a fair appraisal on that new property you’d like to buy or sell? Appraisers have certain standards they must meet for you (by law) when determining a property's true value. This episode will help educate homebuyers and sellers about the appraisal process and when you might need to file a complaint. It also includes bonus content for real estate agents and appraisers themselves.
With every investment, do not risk more than you are willing to lose. We are talking digital assets, cryptocurrency, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT's) with our Division of Securities attorney expert, John Crist to help educate those investors who may not be seeking professional advice and following online influencers, celebrity advertising, etc.
Would you know what to do if an older member of your family was being scammed? What options do you have once money’s been taken out of their account? In this episode, we’re sharing the signs you should look for if you take care of anyone age 60 or above and tips on how to best report fraud if it’s happening in your family. The Ohio Attorney General’s Elder Abuse Commission, along with our Division of Securities, shares important insight in this episode that you’ll want to discuss with your loved ones.
You pick up your smartphone or turn on your computer on a regular basis to pay for items or get paid yourself- but are you making the smartest decisions when you take advantage of these peer-to-peer payment applications? In this episode of Protecting What Matters, our Division of Financial Institutions’ share ways to protect yourself from a potential financial scam when using apps like Cash App, PayPal, or Venmo.
Summertime Safety
Every year Ohioans look forward to vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July. Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor cooking. Think safety first during this important discussion with State Fire Marshal Fire Prevention Bureau Chief Ken Klouda.
The Ohio Department of Commerce is the state’s chief regulatory agency with a specific focus on consumer protection. We issue more than 600,000 licenses, permits, registrations, and certifications each year in various professions, industries, and commercial enterprises. We have a vital role in keeping people, property, and assets safe. From real estate to fireworks, banks to construction, and more, this podcast is a resource for businesses, families, and individuals that want to protect what matters most in their life. Learn more about us by visiting com.ohio.gov