Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection Releases New Podcast Episode Focused on Financial Tips for Uncertain Times
For Immediate Release: Thursday, April 17, 2025
The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection ( OCP ) has released a new episode of its Consumer Connection podcast titled “Out of Work, Not Out of Options: Your Financial Game Plan.” This episode offers listeners practical advice for managing finances during periods of transition, such as job loss, relocation or retirement.
The episode features host Michelle Escobar, an OCP investigator, and guest Ira Rheingold, executive director at the National Association of Consumer Advocates . Together, they discuss strategies for:
- Budgeting and managing expenses.
- Reducing debt.
- Improving financial literacy.
- Recognizing and avoiding scams.
The episode also addresses scams that target individuals during vulnerable times, including fake job offers, moving scams and retirement-related fraud. Listeners will learn how to spot red flags, protect themselves and take steps toward long-term financial stability.
“This episode breaks down complex financial decisions into manageable steps,” said Ms. Escobar. “It’s all about giving residents the tools to stay ahead and stay protected.”
“Out of Work, Not Out of Options: Your Financial Game Plan” is available now on the OCP website and major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts , Spotify and Amazon Music .
Future podcast episodes will cover topics such as avoiding scams, making informed purchasing decisions and understanding consumer rights. Listeners are encouraged to share questions or suggest episode ideas via email .
The Office of Broadband Programs , part of the County’s Department of Technology and Enterprise Business Solutions, provides technical support for the Consumer Connection podcast.
The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection is located at 100 Maryland Ave., Suite 3600, in Rockville. Walk-in hours are 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information or to file a consumer complaint, call 240-777-3636 or visit the OCP website .
Stay connected with OCP on X , Facebook , Instagram and YouTube .
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Release ID: 25-169
Media Contact: Brittany Clingerman 240-777-3732
Categories: Consumer , Education , Senior
For updates and link to press release, see here: http://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=46904