Consumer Connection

https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts211/v4/36/33/b0/3633b008-a6d1-c835-5c0e-585a79a0e431/mza_18318443725590112607.jpg/600x600bb.jpg

Consumer Connection

Michelle Escobar

10 episodes

4 weeks ago

In this episode of Consumer Connection, we sit down with Council President Kate Stewart to learn about her journey from resident to County Council President. Together, we explore how consumer protection is shaping a stronger Montgomery County, from advancing tenant rights to enhancing support for vulnerable adults. We also highlight how early organizing, meeting people where they are, uplifting mental health, and local history are building a more connected, resilient community. To connect wit...

Government

RSS

All content for Consumer Connection is the property of Michelle Escobar and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

Government

Episodes (10/10)

Consumer Connection

Connecting Consumers with Council President Kate Stewart

4 weeks ago

35 minutes

Consumer Connection

Exposing Gold Bar Scams

In this episode of Consumer Connection, we delve into the world of gold bar scams with a special guest, Detective Sean Petty from the Montgomery County Department of Police's Financial Crimes Section. Hosted by Michelle Escobar, an OCP investigator, this episode uncovers the intricacies of these deceptive crimes. Tune in to learn: What gold bar scams areHow these scams start and what it looks like when you’re being approachedWhat victims are told and how they’re contactedHow scammers pose as ...

2 months ago

40 minutes

Consumer Connection

Inside Cryptocurrency Scams with the FBI

Scammers are cashing in on the cryptocurrency craze and targeting everyday people in the process. In this episode, we’re joined by FBI Special Agent David Paniwozik for an insider look at how fraudsters are using cryptocurrency to steal money through fake investments, impersonation scams, and high-pressure tactics. Learn what to watch for, how these schemes work, and how to protect yourself in the ever-evolving world of digital scams. For additional information and resources, visit OCP’s webs...

4 months ago

36 minutes

Consumer Connection

Out of Work, Not Out of Options: Your Financial Game Plan

This episode of the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection’s podcast, Consumer Connection, explores how consumers can navigate financial transitions such as job loss, relocation, or retirement through smart budgeting, saving, and planning. Host and OCP Investigator Michelle Escobar is joined by Ira Rheingold, Executive Director of the National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA), to discuss strategies for managing debt, cutting unnecessary expenses, building financial literacy, ...

7 months ago

43 minutes

Consumer Connection

Guarding Against Imposters with the Federal Trade Commission

In honor of National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), we’re joined by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for a special episode of Consumer Connection! In this episode, host Michelle Escobar is joined by Diana Shiller, a Senior Investigator at the FTC. They discuss the FTC’s role in protecting consumers nationwide and how the FTC works with local consumer protection groups. They also highlight key tactics and tips for avoiding imposter scams and deceptive business practices that listeners shou...

8 months ago

28 minutes

Consumer Connection

Unmasking AI’s Role in Scams

In this episode of Consumer Connection, we explore the use of artificial intelligence in scams and how it’s making them more convincing than ever. From AI-generated profiles in romance scams to deepfake technology in phishing and grandparent scams, we discuss what AI is and the latest tools scammers are using to deceive consumers. Host Michelle Escobar is joined by Keith Young, Chief Information Security Officer at Montgomery County’s Office of Enterprise Information Security, who shares how ...

9 months ago

30 minutes

Consumer Connection

Safe and Smart Holiday Shopping

In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar is joined by special guest Tracy Rezvani, Administrator at the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection, to share essential strategies for holiday shopping. Together, they discuss how to compare prices, handle returns, and avoid common pitfalls like scams that target shoppers during the holiday season. Tune in for expert tips on smart shopping and staying safe this holiday season! Helpful Links: • Montgomery Count...

11 months ago

34 minutes

Consumer Connection

Home Sweet Home

In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar delves into the intricacies of hiring home builders and home improvement contractors. Joined by the Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) Investigations Administrator Patty Vitale and Business Education and Registration Unit Manager Shaun Carew, the team discusses key differences between new home builders and home improvement contractors, tips for consumers to protect themselves, and what to look for in a contract. From understanding...

1 year ago

23 minutes

Consumer Connection

Welcome to Consumer Connection

The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) releases its first podcast, hosted by OCP Investigator Michelle Escobar! In this episode, Michelle is joined by Eric Friedman, the Director of Montgomery County’s Office of Consumer Protection. Together, they discuss a variety of topics including OCP’s history, changes in the consumer landscape, emerging issues, and much more. For additional information and resources, visit OCP’s website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ocp. ...

1 year ago

22 minutes

Consumer Connection

Introducing Consumer Connection

Welcome to Consumer Connection, your ultimate guide to navigating the world of consumer rights and protections. Hosted by Michelle Escobar, an Investigator from the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection, this podcast is your go-to source for staying informed and empowered in today's consumer landscape. Join Michelle as she unpacks essential topics such as avoiding scams, mastering informed purchasing decisions, and understanding your rights as a consumer. Each episode features...

1 year ago