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

This podcast highlights how unknown individuals are targeting Ohio consumers via unsolicited communications, text messages, phone calls, emails, and letters to acquire their personal information or property for less than its worth.

Our experts, Kenyetta Bagby from the Consumer Affairs section of the Division of Financial Institutions and Daphne Hawk, Superintendent from our Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing, share valuable insights, resources, and tips for safeguarding yourself from these fraudulent practices.

For more information visit: com.ohio.gov/ConsumerAffairs

In this important and timely episode, we discuss the topic of burn prevention and fire safety as we recognize Burn Awareness Week in Ohio. This year’s theme, "Burn Prevention Starts Where You Live," emphasizes the importance ofunderstanding and mitigating burn risks within your own home.

Burn risks can exist in any living space, from houses to apartments, and may present themselves in various forms. However, by adopting a proactive approach and taking simple steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of burns and ensure the safety of your family.

Join us as Fire Prevention Bureau Assistant Chief Paul Martin shares valuable insights and practical advice for Ohio consumers looking to maintain a fire-safe environment. From identifying potential hazards to implementing effective prevention measures, we'll cover everything you need to know to keep your loved ones protected.

Listen now and help spread the word on fire safety in Ohio and together let's create safer homes and communities across Ohio. Stay Fire Safe, Ohio!

Are you looking to buy a new home? But more importantly, have you heard about the recent changes in Ohio real estate law? In the next episode of Protecting What Matters, the Ohio Department of Commerce helps homebuyers and sellers navigate the changes in buyer representation and how it can impact your search for that dream home.

In this episode of Protecting What Matters, Ohio Liquor talks about the concept of Dry January and how many people use it as an opportunity to reset their relationship with alcohol. We also dive into the important work of the Prevention Action Alliance and highlight other valuable resources that help individuals understand the importance of responsible alcohol consumption. Learn more about how you can make informed choices when it comes to alcohol by visiting www.OHLQ.com.

The Christmas holiday is a time for celebration and joy, but it’s also a time with increased fire risks. Listen and learn how you can protect your loved ones and home this holiday season. In this episode we're talking fire safety tips with Ohio State Fire Marshal Fire Prevention Bureau Chief Anita Metheny.

In this must-listen episode of Protecting What Matters, we discuss all of the great resources in our newly launched Holiday Gift Budgeting Guide from the Ohio Department of Commerce. Deputy Superintendent of the Division of Financial Institutions Rob Rutkowski shares examples of how you and your family can enjoy a festive holiday season with confidence and financial savvy.  There are also plenty of tips that will help you choose thoughtful, cost-effective gifts for your loved ones while instilling important budgeting skills in your children. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your holidays not only joyful but also more financially secure.

In this discussion, we'll educate the audience so they better understand the opportunities available to 16- and 17-year-old students through the Ohio Manufacturing and Construction Mentorship Program. This episode will inform Ohioans about the opportunities available to those who consider careers in the skilled trades – and it will highlight how the program works, what the benefits are tostudents, and how the program benefits employers who participate. It also will direct listeners to where they can learn more about the program, whether they are teens or employers. Learn more by visiting Com.ohio.gov/mentorship

In this discussion, we're educating Ohioans to better understand safety regulations in Ohio manufactured home communities. This episode will inform the Ohioans about the guidelines, regulations, and safety standards. Moreover, this is designed to encourage residents of these communities to notify authorities about any problems or damages, from severe weather, tornadoes or other incidents, and to prepare their homes for the winter season before the chilly weather arrives.

Join us for an informative episode of Protecting What Matters, where Division of Liquor Control Licensing Director Paul Kulwinski breaks down Ohio's wet anddry laws and the local option election process. In this episode, we comprehensively discuss how these laws impact your community.  Gain insights into how these decisions affect local businesses, economic development, and more. Tune in to understand how these laws shape our communities and your role in the local decision-making process.

Join us as we explore the innovative "Make Me a Firefighter" campaign aimed at boosting recruitment and support for the Ohio Volunteer Fire Service. We’ll discuss the rewards of being a volunteer firefighter, the impact of new initiatives, and how the upcoming 2024 Ohio Fire Marshal Festival is a free, family-friendly outreach opportunity to educate and celebrate efforts to shape the future of firefighting in Ohio. If you have the heart and drive to make a difference in your community, you can become a volunteer firefighter.

No prior experience in emergency services is required — we provide training for you to become the local hero you were born to be. Get started at MakeMeAFirefighter.org.