Protecting What Matters: A Podcast by the Ohio Department of Commerce

This episode explores the decade-long Northwest Capital securities fraud case, the largest in Ohio history, and the enforcement efforts led by the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Securities and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. We focus on the investigative and prosecution process, discuss the investor impact and how the Ohio Investor Recovery Fund is helping Ohioans regain stability.

This episode explores Ohio homeownership and the many tools, resources, and protections available to consumers. Experts from the Ohio Housing Finance Agency and the Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing explain down payment assistance, first-time homebuyer support, the homebuying process, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Cheers to 250 years! Discover how to navigate the Ohio Hard Cider Trail and make the most of this statewide celebration of craft cider and Ohio heritage. You’ll learn where to pick up your passport, how to collect stamps, and how to earn exclusive rewards as you explore participating cideries across the state. 

Back‑to‑school season is here and so is the pressure on your wallet. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we break down practical budgeting tips for families, insights from Ohio retailers on this year’s school shopping trends, and everything you need to know about Ohio’s Sales Tax Holiday. Learn how to stretch your dollars, plan ahead, and shop smarter as you get ready for the new school year. Start this season prepared, confident, and in control of your budget.

With America’s birthday around the corner, celebrating safely is more important than ever. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we sit down with experts from the Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office to discuss the dangers of illegal fireworks, legal use guidelines, key safety tips for a worry‑free celebration, and the legal discharge periods allowed by Ohio law. Learn how to keep your family and community safe while still enjoying the boom and sparkle. For more details please visit our website at com.ohio.gov/Fireworks

May is Building Safety Month and the Ohio Department of Commerce is Cracking the Code and navigating the state’s building and fire codes. In this episode of Protecting What Matters hear from experts on how the building and fire codes where adopted and why they play a vital role in our mission of promoting prosperity by protecting what matters most!.

In this episode of Protecting What Matters explores how we can honor Older Americans Month by helping the older adults in our lives stay safe from financial fraud and maintain secure, healthy homes.

This episode of Protecting What Matters goes beyond dusting and organizing we’re uncovering how clutter and sometimes even hoarding can turn a simple fire into a life‑threatening emergency. You’ll learn what typical household clutter and debris can cause fire. And you’ll see why excessive storage makes fires burn faster and hotter, how blocked pathways put both residents and first responders in danger, and what Ohioans can do if they’re worried about a loved one’s home. Our guests break down the warning signs, share what firefighters see on the ground, and offer practical, compassionate steps to help prevent tragedy. Whether your spring cleaning list is long or short, this conversation will show you how small changes can protect your home, your family, and your community.

In this episode, we explore how education, history, and financial empowerment shape Ohio communities. We highlight a special initiative connected to America 250 Ohio, celebrating our nation’s—and Ohio’s—250 years of contributions and progress. Financial education plays a crucial role in the Department’s mission to protect and empower Ohioans. When youth and families understand how to manage money responsibly, communities grow stronger and more resilient. That’s why Commerce is partnering with Roscoe Village for upcoming Homeschool Days this April, helping students and families build financial confidence for the future. For all of our financial resources visit: com.ohio.gov/consumers

National Consumer Protection Week 2026 is all about empowering Ohioans to make confident, informed decisions and stay safe from fraud. In this special series, experts from the Ohio Department of Commerce, the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, and the Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio break down today’s most common scams, share practical tips you can use right away, and highlight trusted resources to help protect your money, your identity, and your peace of mind. Tune in to learn how to spot red flags, report fraud, and stay one step ahead of scammers. For more resources and information visit com.ohio.gov/ConsumerProtection