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

May 16 2024 2
Protecting What Matters: A Podcast by the Ohio Department of Commerce artwork

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.

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Season of DORAs: Exploring an Exception to Ohio's Open Container Law

May 16 2024 29 mins  
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 t

Navigating Mortgages and Real Estate Professionals in the Homebuying Process

May 03 2024 26 mins  
In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we’re helping Ohioans navigate the complex process of selecting the right mortgage lender and real estate professional. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, 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 mo

Spring Into Safety: Ohio State Fire Marshal's Essential Guide to a Fire-Free Home This Season

Apr 11 2024 26 mins  
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

Ohioans, Protect Your Money: Financial Fraud & Identify Theft by the Numbers

Mar 18 2024 25 mins  
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 Trade Commission 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 Ohi

Consumer Protection for Ohioans: How We Can Help You Prevent Fraud and Secure Your Life

Feb 29 2024 24 mins  
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

Missing Money: Frequently Asked Questions About Unclaimed Funds in Ohio

Feb 15 2024 20 mins  
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 claim

Non-Medical Marijuana: Breaking Down Ohio’s First Set of Proposed Rules

Feb 07 2024 27 mins  
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 benefi

Have a Cable Problem?

Jan 26 2024 24 mins  
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

A Safer Ohio Through Licensing: An Inside Look at the Bureau of Testing and Registration

Dec 29 2023 28 mins  
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.

Ohio’s Minimum Wage Increase: What You Need to Know

Dec 05 2023 27 mins  
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 t