Our special guest is Greg Lawson from The Buckeye Institute! We talk about some riveting ideas they are proposing for Ohio's energy policies, higher education reform, and other critical topics shaping our state.

Here are some key takeaways:

Energy Policy Reform:

• Greg Lawson emphasized the potential of modular nuclear plants to meet Ohio's rising energy demands while maintaining a market-based approach.
• There's a strong push to streamline permitting processes, enabling quicker and more efficient energy solutions.
• The importance of balance and being resource-agnostic, focusing on practical, needs-based energy production without unnecessary subsidies.

Higher Education Overhaul:

• Lawson highlighted the need for higher education institutions to share the risk of student loans, ensuring they produce job-ready graduates.
• Emphasis on reforming administrative bloat, which could reduce tuition costs significantly.
• The critical need to align educational programs with current market demands, especially in STEM fields and practical skill certifications.

School Choice Expansion:

• Ohio's move towards universal EdChoice vouchers, making education funding more student-focused.
• Addressing logistical challenges such as transportation and underutilized school buildings to support the growth of school choice.
• Advocating for parity in support services for voucher students to ensure equitable educational opportunities.

Common Sense Moments

00:00 "Seeking Strong Leadership in the West"

07:38 Ohio's Evolving Energy Landscape

13:07 Rise of Smaller Energy Collaborations

17:45 "Hope for Energy Production Expansion"

27:00 Rethinking Education for Modern Workforce

30:24 Universities Must Ensure Graduates' ROI

37:25 Promoting Trade and Certificate Jobs

40:57 Government's Role & Private Sector Decline

48:41 Enhancing School Voucher Resources

49:37 School Infrastructure and Choice Challenges

59:16 "Individual Freedom in Public Unions"

01:00:44 Unlawful Deductions as Wage Theft

01:09:05 Game Win and Policy Insight

01:11:19 Nonprofit Funded by Private Donations

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 helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

We kick things off by dissecting the confirmation hearings of Pam Bondi and Pete Hegseth. Norm doesn't hold back, slamming the hypocrisy of these political hearings where personal lives are dragged through the mud for sport, drawing comparisons to Brett Kavanaugh's infamous hearing.

Steve then brings up a red-hot topic—California's response to wildfires and calls out Governor Gavin Newsom for his seemingly clueless call for a federal "Marshall Plan." The crew critiques the political missteps and budget cuts that left the LA Fire Department scrambling.

Then things get a bit futuristic as Norm dives into the latest buzz surrounding Anduril's autonomous drones. He paints a picture of these Terminator-esque machines and sparks a debate about the ethical implications of using AI in warfare. It's like something straight out of a sci-fi movie, and the guys grapple with whether this tech leap is brilliant or terrifying.

As we weave through topics, there’s a consistent theme of calling out the nonsense within government systems and society at large. We stress the importance of practicality over political theatrics, urging a return to good old common sense.

Wrapping things up, we dive into some local and national tidbits. Now you know about using Waze to spot snowplows in Ohio and lament the ongoing issues with Apple’s privacy blunders. They also share a bizarre story about a police officer in Ohio whose child was wrongfully taken by local authorities, shining a light on systemic screw-ups.

Of course, no Ohio-based podcast would be complete without a nod to Ohio State's sports triumphs. And cheer on the Buckeyes on the the intense upcoming matchup against Notre Dame.

To cap it all off, we celebrate the reopening of a beloved local restaurant, Ghost Rider, and reflect on the passing of sports legend Bob Uecker. They quit for a minute on how much they'll miss his legendary "just a bit outside" calls.

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Bolsheviks vs. Mensheviks: Power Struggle

09:11 Complex Issues in Fire Response

15:26 Conditional Disaster Aid Politics

19:32 Zoning Creates Land Scarcity

22:15 Biden Commutes Federal Drug Sentences

27:14 Trump's TikTok Policy Reversal

33:57 False Accusations and Innocence Dilemma

39:53 Israel-Hamas Conflict Challenges Ceasefire

46:55 "Star Trek Childhood Memories"

47:26 Star Trek's Moral Dilemma Insight

52:53 Dangers of Sharing Intimate Photos

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

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

We kick off by addressing the ongoing California wildfires—exploring the devastating impact on communities and questioning public officials' management strategies. We don’t shy away from controversial opinions, criticizing the stringent rebuilding regulations and the financial burden this disaster places on taxpayers nationwide.

Then, we look into the intricate legal landscape surrounding Donald Trump’s sentencing. Steve offers an in-depth look at legal concepts like "intervention in lieu of conviction" and the complexities of mandatory minimum sentencing. Norm brings a political lens, questioning the motives and implications of Trump's potential conviction.

Switching gears, the conversation also examines evolving social media dynamics, Dana White's corporate influence, and Mark Zuckerberg’s transformation—probing the sincerity behind these high-profile changes. Plus, we explore a major legal case concerning TikTok and discuss the broader implications of government intervention in tech.

From regulatory mishaps to the economics of disaster management, we debate free speech, government roles, and market freedoms—all while tackling contemporary issues like congestion pricing in urban New York and its ripple effects.

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Trump's delay request denied by Supreme Court.

10:30 Final appealable order required for federal review.

11:07 Supreme Court denies Trump's sentence delay request.

18:43 State cannot prosecute Trump based on precedent.

23:54 Trump delays sentence, plans to appeal soon.

29:03 Understanding context is vital for historical education.

33:32 Budget cut prioritized diversity over competence concerns.

41:52 Authorities complicate rebuilding California coastal mansions.

45:53 TikTok resists U.S. ownership; Supreme Court intervention.

50:23 Admits to government pressure, promises policy change.

56:52 Entry fees for vehicles entering central New York.

01:01:59 Concerns about Joe Biden issuing future pardons.

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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/

Join us as we tackle the pressing issues of national security and civil liberties amidst rising terrorism concerns.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Balancing Security and Freedom: We discuss how to effectively grant government authority to prevent terrorism while ensuring personal freedoms aren't compromised. This balance is critical to maintaining our democracy.
• Cultural Self-Reflection: There's a deep dive into why some Americans harbor negative feelings towards their country and how this impacts societal cohesion. Addressing these undercurrents is essential for national unity.
• Technological and Political Influences: We explore the intersection of technology, like the support for Trump from figures such as Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk, and the nuanced debates within the MAGA movement regarding immigration policies. Understanding these influences offers a clearer picture of current political maneuverings.

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Indulgences required donations for sins' forgiveness.

05:17 Good priests emphasize not worshiping church or individuals.

13:31 Republicans removed debt ceiling increase; closed loophole.

17:28 Youthful uncertainty and lack of financial expectations.

21:51 Trial court injunction stayed, 5th Circuit reversed.

28:36 Balancing laws to address human imperfections.

35:21 Soldiers' actions discussed, historical context mentioned.

41:27 Ramaswami and Musk prefer hiring H1B workers.

45:50 Teacher won case; policy violated free speech.

47:32 Employment suit alleging First Amendment rights violations.

53:31 Ohio bills presented to DeWine; body cam charges.

01:01:50 Biden criticized for January 6th committee medals.

01:02:55 Pelosi rejected McCarthy's picks, awarded medals disproportionately.

01:09:04 Great movie featuring Wilford Brimley, worth watching.

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

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

Reflecting on 2024's major news and exploring significant predictions for 2025.

News with Norm - Presidential Commutations: Norm talks about President Biden's recent commutation of federal death row sentences, putting a spotlight on the case of Daryl Lawrence from Ohio. This segment sparked a robust debate about the political and social implications, contrasting views on the death penalty, and potential future policy changes.

Crime Reporting Concerns: We tackle the critical issue of crime misclassification and its far-reaching impact. Incorrect statistics lead to misguided policies and erode public trust, making it crucial to operate based on reality. Our discussion gets into the nuances of accurate crime reporting and societal implications.

The Corporate Transparency Act and Regulations on Small Businesses: Our conversation sheds light on the burdensome regulations small vendors face. Norm voices frustrations over overbearing penalties on operations, and we examine the broader impacts of increased government surveillance and regulation.

Political Pardons and Predictions Recap: We explore the ethics and consequences of presidential pardons, particularly focusing on Biden's recent actions and the potential future misuses.

PREDICTIONS! We revisit our predictions for 2024, including takes on Biden's re-election prospects, Trump's anticipated actions, and the performance of stock markets.

Historical Insights - Ohio's Legacy: Steve recounts Ohio's rich history, particularly focusing on influential figures like Paul Crosley Jr. From pioneering automotive technology to transforming radio broadcasting, Crosley's contributions remain monumental.

Term of the Year - Brain Rot: Oxford's chosen word for 2024, "Brain Rot," is seeing a resurfacing for its relevance in today's digital age. Its 233% increase in usage since 2023 underscores concerns about the mental impact of excessive online consumption.

Societal Reflections - Bystander Apathy: We highlight the troubling phenomenon of bystander apathy. Incidents in New York serve as a grim reminder of the consequences of inaction during crimes, and we delve into the ethical responsibilities and media's role in shaping public behavior.

Final Thoughts: We wrap up the year with a positive outlook for 2025, reflecting on the importance of transparency, ethical conduct, and the need for informed policy decisions. We sign off with a heartfelt thanks to you, our listeners, for your unwavering support and engagement.

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

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...

Analyzing the potential impacts of a government shutdown on Ohio’s economy and workforce.

Key Takeaways:

• 📉 State Pension Challenges: We look at the "upside down" state pension systems in states like California, Illinois, and New York. The hosts critique the proposal to add new state workers to Social Security instead of fixing the flawed pension systems, emphasizing a need for a sustainable solution.
• 🏠 Work Culture and Accountability: While discussing the broader shift towards remote work, Steve Palmer shares personal anecdotes about the benefits of in-person work environments, including his recent efforts to foster office camaraderie. The hosts argue that real accountability and teamwork thrive better in an in-person setting.
• 📊 Government Spending Scrutiny: How DOGE is looking at the government budget and spending, highlighting inefficiencies and misallocations. They stress the importance of effective fiscal management, drawing comparisons between local charities' minimal overhead costs and federal agencies' bureaucratic expenditures.

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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/

Our focus is on the political landscape with discussions on U.S. immigration trends, Ohio's legislative maneuvers, and potential Republican replacements for Vance. We also critique the transparency of government actions and discuss Lt. Governor Dan Patrick's plans for Texas border protection.

Be prepared for a segment on healthcare frustrations, including UnitedHealthcare's controversial claim denials and the debate over off-label drug prescriptions. Plus, get insights into the controversial Ohio elementary school's involvement with the Satanic Temple, and the ethics of justifying assassination for political reasons.

Stay tuned as we delve into a mix of historical reflections, including the Battle of Fredericksburg and modern-day consequences of eliminating qualified immunity for public employees.

Lastly, don't miss our critical discussions on immigration policies, document destruction controversies, and the shifting regulations surrounding marijuana. Your hosts navigate these topics with their unique blend of humor, historical knowledge, and common sense.

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Lincoln dismisses leader; Burnside reassigned to Ohio.

08:00 Ohio news, Trump immigration, Biden's 1500 pardons.

11:11 Destroyed evidence suggests impropriety and tampering felony.

16:25 Adams, Pritzker seek help from Trump's border czar.

24:06 Debate over Tennessee law banning transgender surgery.

26:02 Coaches permitting behavior leads to rule changes.

35:57 THC variants legal loophole; unclear regulatory intentions.

39:28 Controversy over bill requiring off-campus religious education.

46:04 Deregulation eliminated unnecessary trucking federal approval.

50:56 Reflects on racialization and heroism contradictions.

55:07 Ohio petition proposing limits on qualified immunity.

01:01:54 Syria's dictatorship ends; concerns for minorities arise.

01:04:10 Loves Christmas lights, music, and festive activities.

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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/

We tackle the high-profile legal case involving Daniel Penny and the intricacies of self-defense laws, drawing parallels to the famed Rittenhouse trial and classic vigilantism in films like "Dirty Harry."

We also explore controversial legislation in Ohio and Tennessee that touches on everything from bathroom bills to transgender therapy for minors. The hosts break down the impact of these laws and whether they align with the principles of equal protection.

In light of recent revelations, we'll scrutinize the actions of government officials during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially focusing on Congressman Brad Wenstrup's report on agency mismanagement and alleged media misinformation. The hosts criticize how the government dealt with the crisis, especially concerning economic fallout and public reliance on PPP funds—a large portion of which went astray.

Finally, the conversation will steer towards presidential pardons, Hunter Biden's legal issues, and the broader implications of political influence. Plus, stay tuned for a special teaser on our recent interview with author Mark Patinkin about his new book, "The Holy Land at War."

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Altamont tragedy ended the flower power era.

05:36 Government pacified middle class with financial aid.

07:41 Fauci admitted misleading on masks and policies.

11:20 Hunter Biden's immunity affects self-incrimination privilege.

15:00 Concerned about political influence, not Hunter's actions.

17:55 Jury lacked written instructions; sought expert testimony.

21:38 Did Penny act reasonably in self-defense situation?

22:19 Debate over chokehold: self-defense or manslaughter?

26:42 Prevent intervention against threats leads to jail.

29:09 Gender fluidity questioned in legal context; disagreement persists.

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 helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.