We talk about the latest headlines and everyday issues affecting Ohio—and beyond. Kicking things off with the high price (and surprising theft!) of local pumpkins and apples, the duo explores how tough times are hitting both farmers and consumers this season.

From there, the conversation takes a serious turn as we break down the ongoing government shutdown, who it really hurts, and what it says about how budget battles have become the new normal in Washington. They discuss the history and possible fixes, including bipartisan solutions and the elusive search for reform.

Harper CPA Plus

There’s also big news in healthcare, as the show covers Pfizer’s new price agreement with the federal government, what it means for consumers and drug companies, and if this shift really will help Americans afford life-saving prescriptions.

On the lighter side, the hosts reflect on an unusual gathering of military brass, Pete Hegseth’s hard-hitting speech on standards, and the drive for fitness in the armed forces. The crew also takes a close look at property tax reform in Ohio—a hot-button topic that’s stirring up strange alliances and dire warnings from grassroots groups.

As always, we close with their takes on what’s good, what’s bad, and what’s just common sense in the news this week—from sports updates and powerlifting grannies to driving blunders and seasonal pumpkin spice. It’s a lively, insightful, and sometimes unexpected look at issues both big and small. Plug in and join the 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.

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Harper CPA Plus

The show opens with a heartfelt and thought-provoking discussion about the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s recent assassination, exploring the dangers of divisive language, the legacy of free speech icons, and the importance of patience and fairness during high-profile criminal investigations.

From there, Brett and Norm shift gears to analyze escalating tensions between Russia and NATO—including the dangerous provocations at Eastern European borders and the real risk these actions pose to global stability. The hosts reflect on the cost, consequences, and possible internal solutions to Russia's ongoing war with Ukraine, pondering whether true change must come from within Russia itself.

Back at home, they turn their sights to Columbus and Ohio’s own hot-button issues: the controversial new “entertainment tax” in the Short North, the seemingly never-ending proposals for passenger rail expansion, and staggering school truancy rates. The hosts also spotlight stories with a very human touch, including the tragic local case of gun safety, the shutdown of the Hot Chicken Takeover restaurant chain that hired the recently incarcerated, and a moving tribute to forgiveness from Charlie Kirk’s widow.

Add in a spirited debate about free speech, government overreach, and the role of comedy in political discourse, and you’ve got an episode packed with clear-eyed analysis, passionate opinions, and plenty of common sense.

00:00 Power of Free Speech and Legacies

06:12 Legacy and Impact of Martyrdom

11:26 "Right to Vigorous Legal Defense"

17:54 Putin's Aggressive Actions Post-Summit

23:55 Yeltsin's Defiance in Red Square

27:04 Partisan Comedy Critique

32:52 Free Speech Double Standards

42:45 Columbus Implements Extra Tax Zone

44:21 Downtown Dining Tax Concerns

54:34 Ohio Transit Projects Proposal

55:48 Ohio Railway Project Skepticism

01:05:56 Child Safety and Gun Storage

01:07:26 Franchise Offers Second Chances

01:12:29 Journey of Forgiveness

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.

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio

Mentioned in this episode:

Harper CPA Plus

Steve and Norm opened the episode by expressing condolences and prayers for Charlie Kirk's family, acknowledging the horror and shock felt across the country. In their words, it’s hard to recall a public event as devastating in recent memory. Whether you followed Kirk closely or not, his tragic death is a moment for national reflection.

The conversation pushed past media narratives and social media short clips to consider Kirk’s legacy—his pioneering work in independent media, his faith, and, most notably, his commitment to respectful dialogue. Steve emphasized Kirk’s ability to listen, concede good points in debate, and ultimately reach across divides—a reminder for all of us about the value of seeking truth and understanding, even in disagreement.

Brett encouraged listeners to watch Kirk’s long-form discussions, especially with those who disagreed with him, as a counter to selectively-edited viral moments. Before rushing to judgment on anyone, there’s wisdom in “shutting up and listening.”

Steve and Brett spent time dissecting how media and online culture can create avatars out of public figures—dehumanizing them and making “pulling the trigger” less personal. They critiqued language like “unalived” that softens the reality of murder, calling on everyone to “watch your language” and resist the drift toward dehumanization.

The podcast tackled the immediate online reactions to Kirk’s assassination: from national mourning to a reprehensible flood of celebration on social media from those who disagreed with Kirk’s views. The hosts distinguished between cancel culture—the firing and shunning of people for their beliefs—and the morally different act of celebrating cold-blooded murder.

Steve reflected on recent calls from figures like J.D. Vance to “call out” those who cheer for such violence, drawing important lines between expressing a political opinion and amplifying inhumane, hateful rhetoric.

As a criminal defense lawyer, Steve provided a clear breakdown of what happens next for Kirk’s accused killer: the arrest, initial court appearance, the roles of prosecution and defense, and the significance of due process even in the most emotional cases. The episode emphasized that while the desire for swift justice is understandable, a careful, deliberate legal process is vital to our country’s integrity.

Both hosts closed with calls for more listening, more respect, and less tribalism. In Charlie Kirk’s memory, and for the good of our country, let’s step back from celebrating division and focus on what unites us as Americans—and as people.

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...

We are joined by special guest and sponsor Glenn Harper of Harper CPA Plus Accounting to dive into the realities of taxes for Ohioans—especially small business owners.

Here are 10 key takeaways:

1. Taxes Are Unavoidable—But Strategies Matter: Taxes are an inevitable part of business, but working with an advisor (like Glenn Harper from HarperCPAPlus Accounting) can make a big difference in how much you pay and how you plan.
2. The Tax Code Shapes Behavior: Our tax system isn’t just about funding government; it’s designed to incentivize or disincentivize certain behaviors—like encouraging home ownership with deductions, or penalizing specific business moves.
3. Everyone Wants to Pay Less: No matter the income level, people feel they pay too much in taxes and that those richer than them pay too little. Using legal avenues to reduce liability is just smart business—not cheating.
4. The Impact on Small Business Owners Is Huge: Even small changes in tax policy can make or break small businesses. Tax burdens often affect whether a business owner can hire, expand, or even take a family vacation.
5. Big Corporations Vs. Small Businesses: Large companies have the resources to legally minimize U.S. tax through international maneuvers, while mom-and-pop shops don’t have that luxury and feel the pinch more intensely.
6. Tariffs Are Nothing New: The U.S. historically ran on tariffs before the introduction of income tax in the early 1900s. New rounds of tariffs, while politically popular, ultimately trickle down to consumers and small businesses.
7. Tax Planning Is Essential—Not Optional: Proactive planning—like setting aside half your revenue for taxes—prevents nasty surprises and helps businesses stay afloat.
8. Regulation and “Fairness” Are Ongoing Battlegrounds: Efforts to make corporations or “the rich” pay their “fair share” have ripple effects. Overregulation or unpredictable tax policies can drive businesses (and their jobs) out of high-tax states.
9. Small Business Drives the Economy: Entrepreneurs and small business owners are the engine of growth, innovation, and local employment. Policies that support or punish them have outsized effects on the broader economy.
10. Clarity and Predictability Are Critical: Uncertainty—whether over taxes or trade—discourages business investment and hiring. Recent legislative “permanence” around deductions and rates has brought needed stability but ongoing vigilance is required.

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.

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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...

Hey everyone, quick recap from today’s Common Sense Ohio! We dove into the U.S. Navy’s strike on a narco-boat in the Caribbean, the never-ending war on drugs and how cartels are flooding in deadly fentanyl.

We also broke down Trump’s stance on fighting cartels and wrestled with executive power, immigration, and law enforcement challenges—plus the ongoing debates about parenting, boundaries, and the power of setting tough rules for success.

If you want real talk about leadership, tough calls, and what’s happening here in Ohio and beyond, this episode’s for you!

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 Concert Drug Use Concerns

06:22 Opioid Crisis and Government Complicity

11:33 Florida Pill Mills Chaos

15:50 "Embracing Hardships Builds Resilience"

25:48 Minnesota Church Shooting Tragedy

28:19 "Guns, Transgender Issues, and Mental Health"

32:43 "Federal Prosecutor Insights on ATF Form"

40:56 Tariffs and Court System Challenges

43:39 "Emergency Powers Overreach Concern"

52:43 Military Compliance with Illegal Orders

57:24 Self-Representation Pitfalls

01:01:19 Ohio Weekly Update

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 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

Mentioned in this episode:

Harper CPA Plus

Steve and Norm sit down with Master Sergeant Stephen Walter (retired), a Columbus native, Marine Corps Reserve veteran, and local historian. Together, they discuss the tragic events of Abbey Gate at Kabul Airport on August 26, 2021—the day a suicide bomber took the lives of 13 U.S. service members and wounded many more, including Ohio's own Corporal Kelsey Lainhart.

This episode is a sobering reminder of the realities faced by our armed forces—and the price still paid by many, years after the headlines have faded. We reflect, honor, and discuss what’s changed (and what still needs to change) since Abbey Gate, and find out how you can support those still living with its aftermath.

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 Seriousness vs. Culture Disconnect

06:50 "Chaos From Avoidable Decisions"

14:47 Diplomatic Tensions and Tragic Losses

17:50 Abbey Gate Blast Chaos

23:09 "Soldier Perspectives in Battle History"

32:02 Marine Tragedy: Personal Reflections

37:17 Ford Halts EV Transition for Trucks

42:56 Politicized Reaction to Assault Incident

43:54 Community Policing Decline Discussed

50:10 Ohio National Guard Deployment to D.C.

54:23 Trump's Flag-Burning Order Debate

01:02:48 DC Crime Drops, Critique of Trump

01:05:56 Criticism of Trump's Federal Overreach

Here are three key takeaways from the episode:

Leadership Decisions Have Lasting Consequences: The decision to reduce evacuation gates from three to one, and the manner of the U.S. withdrawal, created tragic vulnerabilities that led to overwhelming chaos and loss.

Human Impact Is Ongoing: We heard the harrowing, personal account of Corporal Kelsey Lainhart’s experience—wounded at just 19, now facing ongoing medical and accessibility costs. Even with VA benefits, the financial and emotional burden on veterans and families is immense.

Donate to Kelsey's recovery here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/Kelsee-Lainhart-Fund

The Importance of Remembering and Learning: Master Sergeant Walter’s historical perspective reminds us that observing anniversaries like Abbey Gate isn’t just about honoring the fallen. It’s about learning from our mistakes, holding leaders accountable, and working to prevent similar tragedies.

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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...

Welcome back to another episode of Common Sense Ohio! In today’s lively roundtable, hosts Steve Palmer, Brett Johnson, and Norm Murdock dive deep into the news shaping the Buckeye State—and beyond.

Kicking things off with some “this day in history,” the guys reflect on the founding of the NFL in Canton, Ohio, and the legendary Battle of Thermopylae, before pivoting to one of this week's hottest global stories: the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the controversial role of U.S. diplomacy.

The team debates Donald Trump’s efforts to broker a ceasefire, dissecting the political fallout and media criticism on all sides, and weighing the very real impacts for Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S.

But that’s not all—they also tackle Ohio’s own big headlines, including the complicated Blendon Township police shooting case and what it means for law enforcement and community relations in Columbus.

Don’t miss their thoughts on the return of Gordon Gee to Ohio State, plus a candid discussion around the shifting culture of higher education in the state. And, as always, they wrap it all up with good-natured banter, local shoutouts, and the kind of honest debate that makes this show a must-listen for anyone seeking perspective from “right in the middle.”

Strap in for thoughtful analysis, a few laughs, and some good old-fashioned Ohio common sense!

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.

Harper CPA Plus on website

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.

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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.