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

The Ohio Department of Commerce is proud to celebrate a transformative year for its Division of Unclaimed Funds. In 2025, we launched a new, state-of-the-art system designed to streamline the way Ohioans claim unclaimed funds and how holders report those unclaimed funds. Akil Hardy, Superintendent of Ohio Unclaimed Funds and Outreach Manager Susie Wagner discuss how navigating a year of change has increased the number of Ohioans being reconnected with this unclaimed funds. Learn more by visiting: www.unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov

Are you thinking about a new career in 2026? Maybe you’ve considered becoming a real estate agent or exploring opportunities in the skilled trades. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we discuss the essential steps you need to take before getting started—from licensing requirements to training programs and resources that canhelp you succeed. This podcast highlights some of the steps that Ohioans can take if they are interested in pursuing a career in either the real estate industry in Ohio or in a skilled trade.

Ohio winters can be brutal and staying warm is a must. But heating your home the wrong way can lead to tragedy. In this episode, we’ll talk about how to keep your home cozy without risking a fire. From space heaters to fireplaces and smoke alarms, we have practical tips to keep you and your family safe. Check out our free fire safety resource by visiting: com.ohio.gov/fire

Dry January. What is it and why do some people participate in it? In this episode of Protecting What Matters Ohio Liquor's Brian Hoyt and Ohio Division of Liquor Control Gregg Dodd discuss how many people use Dry January to reset their relationship with alcohol and share some social responsibility ideas and resources available to help those who need them. Learn more by visiting: https://www.ohlq.com/proof-positive

As Ohioans open their hearts and wallets to support charitable causes this holiday season, scammers are also on the lookout—ready to exploit that generosity. In this episode, we’re joined by experts from the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions, the Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio, and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office to share essential tips on how to give safely and confidently. Learn how to spot red flags, verify legitimate charities, and protect your money while making a meaningful impact.

Resources:

BBB Wise Giving Alliance

Ohio Attorney General’s Charitable Search Tool

We're preparing you for a stress-free season with Ohio's Holiday Budgeting Guide from the Department of Commerce! In this episode, our experts from the Division of Financial Institutions discuss practical tips to help Ohioans avoid holiday debt, manage spending, and protect their financesduring what is considered the most financially demanding time of year.

Whether you're shopping for gifts or hosting familygatherings, this guide offers smart, simple strategies to stay on budget without sacrificing holiday joy.

Learn more at com.ohio.gov/BudgetGuide

The new system for the Ohio Division of Unclaimed Funds makes it easier for businesses to report unclaimed funds. Learn why Ohio businesses need to report these funds, how the state processes them, and how you can search for money that might belong to you. Billions of dollars in unclaimed funds are waiting to be claimed by rightful owners. Visit unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov to search your name or a loved one's name to see if you have any Unclaimed Funds.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a time to break the silence, reduce stigma, and offer support to those affected by mental health challenges. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we shine a light on the undeserved risks faced by first responders in Ohio and across the nation.

From firefighters and EMTs to law enforcement and dispatchers, these public safety professionals often carry invisible burdens.  First Responders’ Bridge Founder, Executive Director Mick Yinger, join us to discuss the realities of mental health in the field, share stories of resilience, and highlight necessary resources available to help those who protect us every day.

Breaking down the new Ohio Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment Portal and other efforts by the Ohio State Fire Marshal's office and the Ohio Fire Academy to help the volunteer fire service. Learn more by visiting com.ohio.gov/fire

Your safety is our top priority! Discover how Ohio’s Building Code and Elevator Inspectors work every day behind the scenes to protect you. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, experts from our Division of Industrial Compliance discuss the insights of our safety inspections and the importance of the work inspectors do to ensure every commercial building open to the public meets the highest safety standards. Learn more by visiting com.ohio.gov/dic