Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock jump into the whirlwind of national and local events shaping our world and our state. From the chaos swirling around Washington, D.C. and Trump’s bold “DC takeover”—is it legal, political theater, or both?—to a nostalgic look at how pop culture icons like Fast Times at Ridgemont High helped define a decade, they leave no stone unturned.

They break down the historical roots of D.C.’s unique status, why the Constitution gave Congress special powers over the district, and how shifts in federal control could change America’s balance of power. Steve and Norm also tackle the rise in big government: how did we transform from “the arsenal of democracy” to the land of red tape and administrative bloat, and what does that mean for our rights today?

Back in Ohio, Norm and Steve discuss the challenges facing our cities—from rising crime in Cincinnati to safety and police shortages in Columbus—and why these trends matter for everyone living in the Buckeye State. On the lighter side, Steve celebrates college football traditions with a preview of the much-anticipated Ohio State vs. Texas showdown, and shares some fatherly pride as his son embarks on basic training.

All this plus late-night TV woes, new global tensions with China, and how American exceptionalism still resonates through history.

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Moments

00:00 80s Party Culture & Consequences

06:06 Global Power for Peace

08:00 D.C. Home Rule and Federal Control

11:29 FDR vs. Supreme Court Power Struggle

15:10 Incremental Loss of Rights

18:31 Kristi Noem's Dog Incident

21:20 "Democrats' Stance on Crime in DC"

23:46 Congress' Decline: Blurred Powers

27:39 Cincinnati's Potential Urban "Donut Hole"

32:28 Security Costs and Business Disruption

33:38 Central City Exodus: Safety Concerns

37:06 Rent Control Subleasing Loophole

42:28 "Friday Night Lights: True Story"

45:56 Protests Over Bullying Incident

49:07 U.S. Sells Chips to China

52:45 Tariffs Boost Stock Market Gains

56:29 Abbey Gate Attack: Afghanistan Tragic Loss

57:10 "Discussing Scandals and Open Debates"

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

[email protected]

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

As we roll into August, hosts Norm Murdock and Brett Johnson talk about the hot-button issues shaping our state and beyond.

This week, the conversation opens with a historical reflection on the origins of federal income tax, before shifting to the heart of current events—rising concerns over crime and community unrest in Cincinnati. The hosts discuss the fallout from recent riots, the evolving political landscape spotlighting figures like Vivek Ramaswamy, and the surprising absence of Governor DeWine from the conversation.

Brett and Norm give a thoughtful look at the complex racial and social dynamics at play, address reactions from local leaders, and suggest constructive ways for communities to come together. The discussion doesn't stop there—they also touch on media and celebrity culture with the Sydney Sweeney controversy, the endless cycle of political division, and how sports can sometimes offer a welcome escape from it all.

Later in the episode, the hosts tackle the ongoing issues of redistricting and property tax reform in Ohio, questioning the lack of progress from state leaders. From financial relief for homeowners, bipartisan cooperation, to the broader implications of economic policy missteps (looking at you, Intel project), no topic is off-limits.

Packed with sharp insights, candid moments, and a touch of humor, this episode offers plenty for anyone trying to make sense of the news and policies affecting Ohioans every day.

Moments

00:00 Governor's Patrol Aid in Cincinnati

09:29 Cincinnati Commentary Controversy

16:02 Historical Anger and Violence Debate

21:55 Post-Apartheid Reconciliation Panels

26:58 Sydney Sweeney's Political Backlash

32:54 Late Night Comedy's Decline

35:50 Fan Ejected for MAGA Hat

40:37 Ohio Gerrymandering Reality

45:39 Income-Based Property Tax Cap

54:52 "Let the Marketplace Decide"

58:13 "Mortgage Rate Concerns Persist"

01:01:01 Trump's Ballroom Expansion Proposal

Harper CPA Plus

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

[email protected]

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

Mentioned in this episode:

Harper CPA Plus

Cincinnati’s Jazz Festival Turns Chaotic

What should’ve been a night filled with sweet jazz rhythms downtown turned into a scene straight out of a wrestling ring. After the festival and a Reds game, racial tensions escalated to violence, leaving five people charged (so far). Brett and Norm dissect what happened, why accountability matters—no matter your background—and the risks of letting “mob mentality” run the show.

• Big Takeaway: No excuses for violence. Whether fueled by alcohol or viral Twitter videos, everyone’s responsible for their actions. And Cincinnati needs to keep its law enforcement game strong at big civic events.

Intel in Ohio: Big Promises, Big Problems

Norm gives us the inside scoop on the Intel factory project in Licking County. Are we building a “white elephant” in our own backyard? Turns out, the much-hyped chip plant might be obsolete before it even opens—thanks to tech moving at warp speed and some sketchy contract details no one wants to audit. Taxpayers, you should be asking: Where’s our money really going?

When Media Spins, Do We Really Get the Facts?

From how local press handled the Cincinnati incident to the larger issue of social media “wildfires,” Brett and Norm question how the narrative is being shaped. Why not let the dust settle and get clarity instead of rushing to judgement—or using tragedy for political points?

Is Law Enforcement Getting Left Behind?

Major public events with just two officers on the job? Civic safety needs attention. The show hosts challenge city officials: Step up or risk turning Cincinnati into the next hollowed-out city center.

Quick Hits: Uber’s Policy Shakeup, NPR/PBS, Ohio Sales Tax Holiday & More!

• Uber: Is letting customers choose a female driver discrimination, safety, or a little of both? Brett and Norm dig into the slippery slope.
• Ohio Sales Tax Holiday: August 1–14. School supplies, clothes, electronics, even pet food (maybe a wedding dress?)—all tax-free!
• NPR & PBS Funding: No more government support? Brett thinks it’s an opportunity for them to innovate and thrive with community backing.

Weekly Winners & Losers

• Loser: Senator Josh Hawley and the idea of $600 tariff rebates for all—wouldn’t that money be better spent on paying down national debt?
• Winner: Sharon Osbourne, honoring Ozzy with the ultimate parade in Birmingham—a fitting, “wild” sendoff.

Get Involved!

Got feedback? Wanna join the conversation or even the show? We LOVE hearing from you. All the contact details are in our show notes.

And if you liked (or didn’t like) what you heard, don’t keep it to yourself—share Common Sense Ohio with your friends, coworkers, and arch-rivals.

A Big Thanks to our sponsor, Harper Plus Accounting. They provide more than just basic transactions, offering expert business consultation as well. They go beyond the basics, providing comprehensive advice on saving, planning, and optimizing taxes.

Moments

00:00 Violence and Accountability Across Races

09:47 Mob Mentality and Its Dangers

13:30 "Criticism of City Violence Response"

16:41 Cincinnati's Racial History and Tensions

22:07 Intel Factory in Ohio Obsolete

31:35 Ohio Contract Debacle Exposed

36:58 Tulsi Gabbard Unveils Russia Hoax Memos

39:48 "Political Influence in FBI Operations"

45:24 GOP Opposition Limited Trump's Agenda

55:22 Immutable Characteristics and Discrimination Debate

59:45 Criticism of Hawley's Tariff Proposal

01:01:53 Future Economic Crisis Warning

01:08:25 Business Strategy and Tax Planning

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

[email protected]

Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Kicking things off, the guys take a look back at pivotal moments in history—the anniversary of the first atomic bomb test (Trinity, 1945) and the publication of "The Catcher in the Rye." Using these milestones as a springboard, they dive into complex conversations around historical context, the ethics of censorship, and the importance of critical thought, especially when it comes to education and banning controversial books.

The episode quickly turns to Ohio’s current headlines—Governor DeWine’s massive veto override showdown, the debate over eliminating property taxes, and what flat taxes or major spending cuts could mean for Buckeye State residents. Tempers flare over government spending and what it would really take to balance Ohio’s budget: Should taxpayers brace for higher sales taxes, or is it finally time to cut government excess?

On the national front, the hosts break down a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming the president’s authority to hire and fire executive branch workers, and what that means for government accountability. Plus, they call out the double standards when government vs. private sector jobs are on the line and reflect on the massive challenges of getting meaningful spending cuts through Congress.

Finally, they sound the alarm on the rise of deepfake videos and AI-generated content, sharing why this technology poses a real threat to public discourse and personal reputations. With stories that range from viral Clint Eastwood hoaxes to the long shadow cast by social media, the guys urge listeners to sharpen their critical thinking and not fall for every meme or emotionally charged headline.

00:00 WWII Atrocities and Espionage

10:07 Banning Fuels Unhealthy Fascination

14:28 Southern Racial Ideology Pre-Civil War

18:45 Medicaid Expansion Controversy in Ohio

24:13 Ohio's Legislative Power Shift

29:38 Ohio Property Tax Reform Debate

32:51 Managing Personal Finances

39:25 "Public Funding for Biased Media?"

45:55 "Debating Trump Derangement Syndrome"

50:30 Deepfake Concerns Rise

58:19 Fatal Police Shooting: Pregnant Woman Killed

01:01:45 "Minivan Driver Causes Highway Pileup"

01:04:15 Salute to Military Families

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

[email protected]

Harper CPA Plus

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

Mentioned in this episode:

Harper CPA Plus

Welcome back to another episode of Common Sense Ohio! This week, Brett and Norm dive into a jam-packed agenda, tackling the confusion and controversy swirling around the “Big Beautiful Bill” (BBB) and its sweeping impact on everything from Medicaid work requirements to overtime tax exemptions and Social Security changes. The hosts pull back the curtain on how massive budget bills often bury major policy shifts with barely any time for lawmakers or the public to digest the details.

We also address the aftermath of the devastating Kerrville, Texas, flood, highlighting how tragedies are too quickly politicized, and reflect on the sad loss and confusion impacting hundreds of families. Plus, we look at ongoing drama surrounding the elusive Jeffrey Epstein client list, shake-up news from Elon Musk’s new “American Party,” and why JobsOhio’s secretive state contracts are raising eyebrows.

Closer to home, Brett and Norm break down the debate over pit bulls and public safety, the challenges facing Ohio’s middle class amidst rising property taxes, and troubling efforts to shield lawmakers’ emails and texts from public record requests.

With winners, losers, and some hard-hitting common sense, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the real stories behind today’s headlines—and how they hit home in Ohio and beyond.

A Big Thanks to our sponsor, Harper Plus Accounting. They provide more than just basic transactions, offering expert business consultation as well. They go beyond the basics, providing comprehensive advice on saving, planning, and optimizing taxes.

Moments

00:00 Medicaid Work Requirements Confusion

09:46 Social Security Tax Exemption Confusion

15:19 "Prioritize Recovery Over Investigations"

16:27 "Weather Service Staffing and Flood Response"

26:32 Theory on Epstein-Wexner Friendship

32:14 Strategic Senate Disruption Plan

34:30 Elon's Debt Reduction Strategy

40:03 Ohio Liquor Control Privatization Update

47:57 Governor DeWine Vetoes Property Tax Relief

52:32 Libertarian Views on Exotic Pets

58:12 Unintended Consequences of Big Cat Laws

01:01:11 "Driver Distracted Before Ohio Crash"

01:05:23 Supreme Court Backs Presidential Layoffs

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

[email protected]

Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

This episode hits on everything from Supreme Court smackdowns to Ohio’s latest budget wrangling. Some fascinating historical context, legal insight, and yes, even a bit of humor about how our government actually works.

Here are 3 key takeaways that resonated with me:

• Judicial Power & Nationwide Injunctions: The Supreme Court’s recent decision hammered home a crucial point—allowing a single district judge to halt federal policy nationwide is a bad idea, no matter which side of the aisle you’re on. Amy Coney Barrett’s opinion (and the fiery back-and-forth with Ketanji Brown Jackson) is a reminder of just how critical it is to keep checks and balances intact.
• Budget Battles & Political Theater: Ohio’s “big and beautiful” budget bill is full of political give-and-take. Whether it’s debate over taxing H1B remittances, property tax relief, or flat tax reforms, the hosts highlighted how government spending (and the process to pass it) is often more about showmanship than substance.
• Understanding Our History—with Nuance: The episode underscored the importance of studying our country’s past honestly, including the complexities of the Founding Fathers and the long, painful arc of issues like slavery. Our modern debates about policy and social justice are richer (and fairer) when we confront history head-on, not through simplistic narratives.

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Reflecting on July 4th

08:17 Short-Sighted Statutes and Grant's Legacy

12:59 Injunctions as Legal Tools

20:04 Politicization of Supreme Court Nominations

23:57 Speech Restrictions and Content Discrimination

27:15 Defending Unpopular Cases and Challenges

34:15 Misleading Goods and Political Frustrations

41:10 Debt Compromise: A Necessary Choice

44:32 Ohio Budget: DeWine's 67 Vetoes

48:25 Ohio Property Tax Controversy

54:45 Ohio Property Tax Controversy

01:00:21 Tragic Crash: Truck Driver Sentenced

01:07:06 US Debt Crisis: Real Cuts Needed

[email protected]

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

A Big Thanks to our sponsor, Harper Plus Accounting. They provide more than just basic transactions, offering expert business consultation as well. They go beyond the basics, providing comprehensive advice on saving, planning, and optimizing taxes.

Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

Welcome back to Common Sense Ohio, where "right from the middle" means no topic is too hot to handle—especially when it comes to F bombs and bunker bombs. In this episode, co-host Brett returns from a month-long hiatus to join Norm as they tackle a packed agenda covering both global and local headlines.

Get ready for an unfiltered dive into international diplomacy as the hosts unpack recent U.S. military actions in Iran, including a discussion on the controversial use of bunker buster bombs and America’s ongoing approach to global regime change. Brett and Norm draw parallels from history, weighing the impact of American intervention abroad, with plenty of opinions on what actually works.

Back on the home front, they break down the ins and outs of Congress’s “big beautiful bill”, the pivotal legislation working its way through Washington. The guys debate the ever-climbing national debt, question why non-budgetary riders are buried in the bill, and challenge politicians to grow a backbone and make tough decisions, finally.

Ohio issues get their share of airtime, too. Find out why a local lawmaker wants to tie funding for pro sports teams to winning records, and get the latest scoop on Supreme Court decisions affecting immigration and local communities. From electric vehicle mandates to the wild idea of government-run grocery stores, nothing is off the table.

Whether you’re a political junkie, a sports fan, or just someone trying to make sense of today’s headlines, this episode delivers sharp insight and classic Midwestern no-nonsense. So buckle up and enjoy another week of Common Sense Ohio!

Harper CPA Plus on website

Moments

00:00 Diplomatic Struggles Before Ceasefire

06:45 Embassy Sovereignty and International Relations

14:47 Tax Deduction Disagreement in Congress

16:04 Debt Crisis and Legislative Challenges

24:14 Efficient Mass Transit Advocacy

28:58 Conditional Funding for Accountability

34:31 "Immigration Policy and Deportation Debate"

40:29 EV Mandate Reversal Spurs V8 Revival

46:57 EV Tax Registration Confusion

50:31 Grocery Prices Debate

57:32 Farewell: Brian, Bobby, Rick Remembered

01:00:15 "Strikes on Iran Nuclear Facilities"

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

[email protected]

Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Mentioned in this episode:

Harper CPA Plus

Welcome back to Common Sense Ohio! In this episode, Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock tackle some of the hottest issues making headlines—both at home and abroad. The conversation kicks off with a dive into history, reflecting on America’s ongoing struggle to balance free speech and government power, from the Alien and Sedition Acts of the 18th century to present-day campus protests and debates over censorship on social media.

The guys get into the nitty-gritty of the legal showdown between California Governor Gavin Newsom and President Trump over the federalization of the National Guard during civil unrest. This is a topic with far-reaching implications for states’ rights and executive power. They relate this modern drama to past events, like Eisenhower’s historic call to federalize the Guard in Alabama during the civil rights era.

The discussion then shifts to today’s border and immigration challenges in Ohio and nationwide, exploring ICE enforcement, due process for asylum seekers, and the real-world impacts of shifting federal policies. Internationally, Steve and Norm dig into the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, the role of U.S. foreign policy, and what it could mean for global stability.

As always, our hosts wrap things up with some common sense—sharing their takes on local happenings, the importance of cultural mainstays like baseball, and a touching tribute to the late Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys.

Harper CPA Plus on website

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Adams-Jefferson Rivalry and French Tensions

09:00 History Repeats: Rights Contested

10:52 US National Guard Federal Activation

19:31 Private Security Mistake Leads to Fatality

22:17 Media Misunderstandings on Deportation

26:39 Trump's Middle East Strategy Unveiled

36:42 Shifting Perspectives on Border Control

37:43 "Border Control Failures Echo 9/11"

44:09 Impact of Arrest on Family

48:37 Trump-Era Tariffs & Market Impact

56:13 "Brian Wilson: Good vs. Evil"

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio

Mentioned in this episode:

Harper CPA Plus

Welcome back to another episode of Common Sense Ohio, where hosts Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock cut through the noise to talk about the hottest issues affecting Ohio—and the nation at large. In this June 11, 2025 episode, the guys dive headfirst into the recent wave of riots spreading across cities like a contagion, unpack what’s really going on behind the scenes, and debate the government’s response. They draw fascinating connections to history—think Magna Carta—and discuss its continued impact on American law and governance.

Steve and Norm don’t shy away from controversy. They tackle explosive topics like the chaos following targeted ICE arrests in LA, the politics behind deploying the National Guard, and the persistent double standards in how law enforcement actions and protests are perceived by the media and politicians. They also take a look at broader societal shifts, such as the landmark Supreme Court decision in Ames vs. Ohio Department of Youth Services and what it means for anti-discrimination law in America.

Switching gears, the episode delves into the big changes on the college sports front, with Ohio universities now legally paying athletes under new NIL agreements, and the challenges this brings. Plus, they poke at some big philosophical questions—from the legalization of gambling and marijuana to the privacy risks of DNA testing companies like 23andMe selling genetic data during bankruptcy proceedings.

Harper CPA Plus

As always, Steve and Norm wrap things up with their weekly outrages and wins—touching on recent law enforcement issues in Ohio, the importance of recognizing military service in schools, and surprising moments of accountability in public service. It’s thought-provoking, sometimes fiery, and quintessentially Common Sense Ohio.

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

[email protected]

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio

Welcome back to another episode of Common Sense Ohio! In this week’s show, recorded on May 28, 2025, hosts Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock deliver their no-nonsense take on everything from historical scandals to hot topics right here in the Buckeye State.

They kick things off with a look back at the infamous Watergate break-in—unpacking the enduring legacy of political coverups—and quickly draw parallels to the modern controversies swirling around today’s leaders. From the ongoing questions about accountability in the White House to new revelations about COVID-19 policies and vaccine recommendations, no stone is left unturned.

The hosts then pivot to free speech, comparing American First Amendment protections to the increasing crackdowns across Europe and the UK, where people are being arrested for social media posts and even silent prayer. If you’ve ever wondered what separates American liberties from those abroad, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Closer to home, Steve and Norm get fired up about everything from controversial school bathroom policies in Upper Arlington, the changing safety climate in Columbus’ Short North, to whether schools do enough to honor new military recruits. There’s also spirited banter about the NBA’s “doctors,” LeBron James’ newly minted honorary degree, celebrity activism, and a heartfelt farewell to Ohio musician Rick Derringer.

Rounding out the episode, the guys tackle Chinese-owned businesses in Ohio, local government cyberattacks, the fallout from the Jussie Smollett case, and, as always, their picks for outrage and triumph of the week—including chipmunks wreaking havoc, and a tribute to the legacy of Duck Dynasty’s Phil Robertson.

Grab your coffee and settle in for a fast-paced, sharp-witted discussion that covers the headlines, the history, and everything in between—from the heartland’s common sense perspective.

Harper CPA Plus

00:00 Nixon's Watergate Cover-Up Attempt

05:55 "Current Scandals and Historical Parallels"

09:14 "Imagining U.S. Without First Amendment"

11:43 "Hyde Park Soapbox Origins"

16:21 London Police Chief's Online Speech Warning

17:36 Liverpool Parade Incident

23:18 Short North Seeks Tax Authority

25:15 "What Went Wrong?"

27:40 NBA Legend's 1980s Dominance

32:25 Ohio House Bill Targets Foreign Ownership

36:43 Deputy Killed by Recidivist Shooter

39:48 Columbus Data Breach Lawsuits

42:19 Jussie Smollett Case Closure

46:44 "Impact of Faked Race Crimes"

50:09 Upper Arlington Graduation Highlights

51:52 Memorial Day: Honoring Fallen Heroes

56:19 Chipmunk Conquest Costs Friendships

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.