Common Sense Ohio

Common Sense Ohio
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We're taking a common sense approach to the news events in Ohio. And why Ohio? Well, because it's right from the middle. It's the heart of it all. It's the place where you can test almost all Americanized theories. It's a jumping-off point to having greater discussions about politics and news. And what's going on not only in the state of Ohio, but the country --and maybe even the rest of the world. Your Common Sense hosts are: Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. Brett Johnson is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio.

  1. 8H AGO

    From State Taxes to State of the Union

    Welcome back to Common Sense Ohio! In this week’s episode, Steve Palmer, Norm Murdock, and the crew jump right into the thick of things—discussing the State of the Union (yes, Trump gave quite the speech), the ongoing drama within the Ohio Republican Party, and, of course, the Olympics making headlines for all kinds of reasons. The conversation kicks off with a bit of history—think Muhammad Ali’s upset victory and the origins of income tax—before spiraling into today’s hot topics. You’ll hear some pretty candid (and funny) rants on everything from government spending to why letting kids fail might actually make us all stronger. The guys dig into why it’s so hard for folks on either side of the aisle to just admit when the other side does something good, and how that stubbornness is playing out everywhere—from Congress to local politics. Plus, as always, there’s talk of big Ohio issues (looking at you, data centers), thoughts on partisan hypocrisy, a little legal advice about fighting parking tickets, and even a shout-out to the American hockey team and what makes this country so unique. Whether you’re here for the politics, the history, or just to get a few laughs, this episode has a bit of everything. Pull up a chair, get comfortable, and join us for another round of unfiltered, common sense conversation! Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. info@commonsenseohioshow.com 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. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ 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 2026 Common Sense Ohio

    1h 5m

  2. FEB 11

    SAVE Act Stumbles While Ohio Argues About Everything—As Usual

    Election Integrity, Ohio News, and Super Bowl Culture: Highlights from the Latest Common Sense Ohio On the latest episode of Common Sense Ohio, Steve and Norm look into timely topics shaping both the Buckeye state and the nation. From voter ID debate to Super Bowl halftime controversy, and even local law enforcement updates, there’s plenty for thought leaders and Ohio enthusiasts to chew on. Here are three key takeaways from the discussion: The SAVE Act & Election Integrity: The push for a federal voter ID law is heating up. While Ohio already requires ID at the polls, the proposed SAVE Act would apply voter ID nationally, sparking constitutional debates about the balance of federal vs. state authority in running elections. Both Republican and Democrat voters reportedly support voter ID in high numbers—pointing to bipartisan concerns about election security. Economic & Regulatory Impact: From new EPA rulemakings impacting auto and trucking prices, to the boom in Ohio data centers driving up local taxes and impacting rural life, legislation and regulatory action continue to have big ripple effects. The debate around balancing economic growth, environmental policy, and protecting local communities is front and center. Culture & Division in Public Spaces: Whether it’s reactions to the Super Bowl halftime show or stories of political confrontation in everyday settings, Steve and Norm explore how identity politics and culture wars are spilling into spaces meant for shared celebration. Their call? Let’s bring back more unity—and healthy debate—into these communal moments. They also touch on school choice battles, the importance of government fraud enforcement, and personal stories from Ohio history, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in policy, culture, or just a dose of common sense. Catch the episode for more insights, and if you’re passionate about these issues, chime in with your perspective—let’s keep the conversation going! Moments 00:00 "Eerie Parallels to Reagan Era" 05:16 Georgia's Role in American Revolution 12:47 "State vs. Federal Voting Control" 17:33 "Election Integrity and Population Shifts" 25:15 EPA Greenhouse Gas Rule Challenge 26:33 "Critique of Government Overreach" 33:47 Cartels, Missiles, and Border Tensions 39:44 Ohio School Choice Legal Challenge 44:10 Miranda Rights and Custody Explained 49:36 Pulled Over in New Mexico 57:06 "Breezy's Comeback Triumph" 01:02:51 Super Bowl Halftime Backlash 01:05:05 "Weekly Common Sense Updates" Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. info@commonsenseohioshow.com Harper CPA Plus on website 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. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Copyright 2026 Common Sense Ohio

    1h 5m

  3. FEB 5

    Kid Rock'n the Halftime Show

    Whether it’s Kid Rock vs. Bad Bunny, legal victories, or the ongoing mess in New York City, this episode is packed with sharp insight, humor, and the grounded perspective you’ve come to expect from Common Sense Ohio. Welcome back to another episode of Common Sense Ohio! This week, hosts Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock are joined by guest Troy Henriksen for a lively and thought-provoking conversation about the headlines and hot topics defining the Buckeye State—and the nation. In this episode, the crew dives into history with a quick lesson on the Punic Wars and how "Carthago Delenda est" echoes through modern politics, before pivoting to the current state of lunar exploration and the Artemis missions. They break down the heated congressional hearing that saw Rep. Maxine Waters telling Treasury Secretary Scott Besant to "shut up," and unpack the broader problems with identity politics, including the conflation of policies and personal traits in elections. The episode also tackles tariffs, blue-collar realignment, and the shifting political affiliations of labor unions, with Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock debating their effectiveness and political fallout. They take a closer look at the legal side of hot-button issues, discussing the recent lawsuits around gender-affirming surgeries and the critical role of trial lawyers in shaping medical and corporate behavior. The conversation doesn’t shy away from tough subjects—from the practical challenges of immigration and birthright citizenship to the mounting controversy over the release of Jeffrey Epstein files and the danger of rumor-driven reporting. And in true Common Sense Ohio fashion, no pop culture stone is left unturned: the Super Bowl halftime show gets the spotlight, with a debate on whether politics belongs in football and who really wins the battle for America’s remote control. Moments 00:00 "Carthago Delenda Est" 03:59 Corrections on Greenland and Deportations 09:51 "Tariffs and Global Diplomacy" 10:45 "Tariffs: Economic vs. Political Impact" 16:10 "Advocating Informed Vaccine Choices" 17:19 Freedom of Access Debate 22:47 Abortion Clinic Buffer Zone Debate 24:21 "Litigation Reflects Deeper Discontent" 28:54 Haitian TPS, Birthright Citizenship Debate 30:20 "Origins of Birthright Citizenship" 33:16 "Rudy, Koch, and Common Sense" 39:03 "Epstein Case Allegations and Fallout" 40:43 "Reflections on Evolving Debates" 45:58 "Grammys, Virtue Signaling, Stolen Land" 49:50 "Keep the Super Bowl Apolitical" 50:51 "Evolution of National Anthem Performances" Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. info@commonsenseohioshow.com Harper CPA Plus 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. Copyright 2026 Common Sense Ohio

    57 min

  4. JAN 29

    Wait. We're all Nazis?

    Welcome back to Common Sense Ohio! In this week’s episode, hosts Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock kick things off with a sobering look back at the Challenger and Columbia space shuttle disasters, drawing lessons about complacency, risk, and governmental pressure. The discussion quickly heats up as Norm Murdock tackles the rampant misuse of words like “Nazi” in modern political discourse, calling for historical literacy and cooler heads in polarized times. The trio takes a hard look at recent protests and law enforcement encounters in Minnesota, emphasizing the importance of wise governance and responsible rhetoric—while also leveling criticism at public officials and the media for fanning the flames of division. You’ll also hear sharp analysis of Trump’s new “baby account” program, the state of Ohio’s spiking credit card debt, and an eyebrow-raising moment from the current AG race. From real estate on Lake Erie to digital kill switches in your car, the guys don’t shy away from tough ideas or controversial takes. Plus, as always, they wrap up with their good-and-bad-of-the-week in true Common Sense Ohio style. Get ready for a lively—and sometimes provocative—hour, right from the heart of Ohio. Moments 04:11 "What is a Nazi?" 06:41 "Critique of Immigration Enforcement Rhetoric" 12:20 "Policing, Protests, and Philosophy" 12:56 "First Amendment Restrictions Explained" 18:12 "Political Manipulation and Chaos" 19:08 "Obama's Impact on Police Relations" 23:06 Trump Urges Calm, Seeks Solutions 27:58 Stock Market Accounts for Children 30:45 "Ohio AG Candidate's Controversial Remarks" 34:07 "Resisting Self-Righteous Justifications" 37:53 Ohio's Rising Debt and Taxes 39:32 "Spending Less Without Credit Cards" 42:43 Governor DeWine Opposes Immigration Enforcement 46:20 "Honesty, Hiring, and Second Chances" Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. info@commonsenseohioshow.com Harper CPA Plus 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. Copyright 2026 Common Sense Ohio https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    48 min

  5. JAN 14

    Ohio Hosts Weigh In: Police Actions, Transgender Rights, and Political Leadership

    Welcome back to Common Sense Ohio! In this lively episode, Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock ring in the new year on a fresh set, diving headfirst into a mix of history, law, and local affairs. They kick things off with a look back at the Treaty of Paris and the complexities that shaped America’s early days, drawing fascinating parallels between historical events and today’s debates. From there, the conversation takes on the hot-button issue of transgender athletes in women’s sports, unpacking recent Supreme Court cases and the challenge of defining gender in law and society. Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock don’t shy away from examining the implications for equal protection, the perils of redefining words, and the importance of common sense when it comes to making and enforcing laws. Shifting gears, they tackle the controversial ICE shooting in Minneapolis, connecting the dots between local politics, federal authority, and the practical impact on law enforcement and civilians. The hosts offer unfiltered thoughts on the responsibility of leaders, the risks of political messaging, and the lessons to be learned from recent tragedies. Rounding things out, Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock dig into Ohio news—including fraud investigations, immigration policy, and a high-profile double murder case in Columbus. As always, they wrap up with their “good and bad” picks of the week, highlighting national defense, political maneuvering, and the unpredictability of current events. It’s an episode packed with sharp insights, historical context, and the straight talk you expect from Common Sense Ohio. Let’s jump in! 00:00 "Commodore Perry's Lake Erie Legacy" 10:15 Traditional Values Under Siege 13:37 Defining Terms in Rational Debate 21:40 "Personal Choice, No Public Funding" Lawyer Talk panel discussion 27:00 "Legal Insights on Police Cases" 32:35 "Police Stand-Down and Consequences" 35:48 Neglected Duty in Minneapolis Riots 41:53 State Police Power and Minnesota's Failure 44:39 ICE Enforcement and Local Responsibility 59:48 "Possibility of Death Penalty" 01:05:02 "Military Reform and Accountability" 01:11:12 "Trump Heckled at Ford Factory" 01:12:21 "Common Sense Ohio 2026" Harper CPA Plus 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. Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. Copyright 2026 Common Sense Ohio

    1h 13m

  6. JAN 7

    Fraud, Taxes, and Calls for Political Change in Ohio

    Welcome back to Common Sense Ohio! In this episode, Steve Palmer, Norm Murdock, and Troy Henriksen kick off the new year with their signature blend of straight talk, history lessons, and a healthy dose of sarcasm. The guys start out admitting—yep, Steve Palmer called that Ohio State would win, and, well, that didn’t happen. From there, they waste no time jumping into a whirlwind of topics: quick trips through world history, sharp takes on modern socialism creeping into local politics, and plenty of jabs at New York’s rent control mess and what it might mean for property rights everywhere. You’ll hear them dig into the nuts and bolts of tax changes, dissect the fallout from massive fraud in Minnesota and Ohio, and call out lawmakers who are too afraid of offending anyone to do their jobs well. They even touch on big moves abroad—like the U.S. going after the Venezuelan regime—and what it shows about American power today. And of course, there are all the regular Common Sense Ohio trademarks: playful banter, some shameless Ohio pride, a few pop culture references, and real frustration at politicians of every stripe. By the end, you’ll get their “good, bad, and ugly” of the week—including a shout-out to a Bible podcast that’s keeping Steve Palmer on track. If you like your current events with a side of humor, skepticism, and unapologetic Midwest sensibility, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started! Harper CPA Plus Moments 00:00 "Harper Plus Accounting Spotlight" 03:46 "Fall of the Khmer Rouge" 06:33 "Trump's Actions and Policies" 11:16 "Self-Gratification Over Free Handouts" 13:46 "Fearing Centralized Government Power" 17:36 Owner Rejects ICE Presence 21:16 "Discrimination's Slippery Slope" 24:42 "Unity and Equality in Military" 27:40 Minnesota Governor's Fraud Scandal 30:54 Daycare Fraud Tied to Grocery 33:47 Ohio Republicans and Tax Concerns 37:27 "Venezuela: Discussing Maduro Indictment" 39:51 "Debating a Dictator's Removal" 43:40 "Targeting Drug Boats Debate" 45:25 "American Role in Escobar's Fall" 48:49 "Monroe Doctrine's Hemispheric Divide" 52:31 "MAGA Concerns Over H1B Stance" 55:08 Convictions, Indictments, and Cooperation Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. info@commonsenseohioshow.com 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. Copyright 2026 Common Sense Ohio

    57 min

  7. 12/31/2025

    The Importance of Aiming High: Life Lessons from Three Generations

    Welcome to a special year-end episode of "Common Sense Ohio"! In this lively conversation, hosts Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock are joined by Matt Palmer, who brings a fresh, firsthand perspective as a recent Army recruit home on leave. Together, the trio reflects on the transition from high school to military service, the value of having a plan, and how discipline and responsibility can shape a young individual’s life. The episode covers a wide range of topics—from the origins of our calendar’s New Year and travel tales in Tuscany, to sharp insights on America's immigration challenges and government program fraud. Matt Palmer shares his military training journey, touching on the sense of camaraderie, skill-building, and the opportunities the Army provides, including plans for continued education. The discussion isn’t afraid to hit tough topics, including cultural assimilation, systemic fraud in taxpayer-subsidized programs, and the role of personal accountability in both public policy and private life. The hosts wrap up with reflections on aiming high, making bold predictions for the year ahead, and a spirited Ohio State football preview. Tune in for an episode that blends generational wisdom, personal growth, policy analysis, and a touch of Buckeye pride—all with a spirit of honest debate and common sense. Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. info@commonsenseohioshow.com 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.

    1h 15m

  8. 12/10/2025

    What Small Business Owners Must Know for Stress-Free Year-End Accounting

    Small Business, Big Lessons We kick things off with Troy Henriksen sharing his journey as a law student who’s also running a thriving pressure-washing business in Central Ohio. From starting with a YouTube video to building “Drip Drop and Wash” into a legitimate LLC, Troy embodies the entrepreneurial hustle. 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. The Essential SMB Survival Guide - Glenn Harper breaks down what small business owners must do as the year wraps up: Get Your Books in Order: Track every dollar in and out, and don’t fall prey to sole proprietor shortcuts that could haunt you at tax time.Plan Proactively: Don’t wait until April! Work with your accountant all year to avoid nasty surprises and leverage smart purchases and deductions before December 31st.Employee vs. Subcontractor: Misclassification is rampant and risky. Learn why treating workers properly—W2 vs. 1099—can save you from major fines and even criminal investigations.Lessons on Liability & Structure: It’s easier and safer than ever to create an LLC in Ohio. Shield your personal information and assets while setting yourself up for long-term growth.The School of Hard Knocks (and How to Dodge It): Why investing in professionals for accounting, legal, and business setup pays off tenfold, even if the upfront cost feels daunting. New Tax Changes on the Horizon - Steve Palmer and Glenn Harper talk through the latest in federal tax legislation, from permanent standard deduction increases to bonus depreciation. How will overtime and tips play out in the new bill? Our team is still sorting through the wild, wild west of reporting and compliance! Capitalism vs. Government—Who Wins for Customers? The episode ends on a candid note about the power of competition and hard work—why private business always outperforms government bureaucracy, what customer service really means, and why your reputation (especially in the age of social media) matters more than ever. Quick Tips from This Episode: Work with your accountant all year, not just at tax time.Invest in your business in December if you need equipment or deductions.Treat your employees right—don’t risk the fines.Build a business model you enjoy and are good at.Accept that setbacks happen; what matters is how you respond. Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. info@commonsenseohioshow.com 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...

    46 min
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We're taking a common sense approach to the news events in Ohio. And why Ohio? Well, because it's right from the middle. It's the heart of it all. It's the place where you can test almost all Americanized theories. It's a jumping-off point to having greater discussions about politics and news. And what's going on not only in the state of Ohio, but the country --and maybe even the rest of the world. Your Common Sense hosts are: Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. Brett Johnson is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio.

Information

  • Creator
    Common Sense Ohio
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    170
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Common Sense Ohio
  • Show Website
    Common Sense Ohio

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