Common Sense Ohio

Latest Episodes:

Trump Administration and Free Speech: Concerns and Considerations Mar 07, 2025

Show notes

Hey folks, Brett and Norm here, jumping into another week with Common Sense Ohio! Shoutout to Harper and Company CPAs Plus for keeping us financially savvy. Honestly, nothing like walking out of a meeting with those guys feeling like you’ve got your business game plan down for the quarter!

Free speech on college campuses. Norm raises the flags on this shift from creating ‘safe zones’ to muzzling people’s opinions. We get it, not every opinion is peachy, but bottling up resentment isn’t the way to go. Let’s keep conversations flowing, even when they’re tough to swallow.

Oh, and let’s not forget Trump’s latest speech. A mix of comedy club vibe with some heartfelt stories thrown in. Seriously, no matter your politics, those stories of young heroes in the gallery tug at your heartstrings and remind you we're all rooting for the same team in the end.

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Back on Ohio turf, there's chatter on whether school board candidates should flash their political colors on the ballot. Yeah, it’s already happening on the sly, but do we really need to make everything a political tug-of-war? Just some food for thought.

Wrapping up on a high note, cheers to Ohio throwing a cool $200 million at Career and Technical Education! Let’s get more kids pumped about skilled labor jobs. Welders, machinists, electricians—these gigs are not just vital but bring in the bucks. It’s high time we show them some love.

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Free Speech vs. Campus Censorship

06:36 "Hamas Attack Sparks Campus Protests"

10:15 Concerns Over Campus Free Speech

17:39 Trump's Speech: Comedy Meets Drama

25:40 Moderate Democrats on Wasteful Spending

27:19 Senate's Transgender Sports Vote Debate

34:37 Clinton-Gingrich Budget Lessons

38:37 Ontario-US Trade and Tariff Tensions

42:51 Ford's Cross-Border Tariff Issues

49:07 Capitol Display: Only US Flags

54:17 Partisan Influence in Local Politics

57:36 Judicial Seat Deals in Politics

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.

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Unpacking Tax Reforms and Economic Policies: Insights from Glenn Harper Feb 28, 2025

Show notes

We had the pleasure of welcoming Glenn Harper from Harper Plus Accounting. Our conversation focuses not just on taxes, but entrepreneurship and the complex landscape of financial management.

We talk about the nitty-gritty of tax season—the looming monster that lurks at the edge of every April. We kick it off with why everyone should be paying attention to how tax policies and economic principles affect their daily lives.

What stood out most was our discussion about the Trump tax cuts and the benefits they brought to entrepreneurs and the economy at large. Glenn emphasized that the lesser tax burden under the Trump administration actually led to higher revenue. It's a testament to how lowering taxes can stimulate economic growth—a lesson learned from past presidencies like JFK and Reagan, yet continually overshadowed by debates on taxing the wealthy.

Norm chimes in with his frustration over his prolonged battle with the IRS—a saga spanning over six years. It highlights the inefficiencies and bureaucratic tangles that taxpayers often find themselves ensnared in. Glenn and Steve both shared their thoughts on the necessity for a more streamlined, transparent tax system that doesn’t put unnecessary burdens on individuals striving to comply with its complexities.

We then get into government spending and accountability. With DOGE's revelations about untraceable federal spending, we explore the absurdity of such fiscal negligence and the pressing need for accountability in government expenditures.

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Common Sense Moments

09:30 Navigating the IRS System

12:17 IRS Priorities: Accurate Tax Filing

16:24 Tax Cuts and Economic Spending

21:17 Unexpected Shopping Expenses

29:25 "Tax Cuts Stimulate Entrepreneurship"

36:17 Musk Criticizes EV Tax Credits

40:34 "Informed Opinions Over Hasty Judgments"

46:11 Remote Work Challenges and Abuse

49:43 Overhiring and Workforce Adjustment

53:23 Transparency and Accountability Needed

01:02:17 Supreme Court Lifts Aid Funds Block.

01:06:25 "Echoes of Marbury v. Madison"

01:10:31 Harper CPA Contact & Services

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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Analyzing JobsOhio: Is It a Secret Monopoly Funded by Ohio's Public Liquor Franchise? Feb 21, 2025

Show notes

The Real Issue with Economic Incentives: "A guy from Microsoft told the New York Times, you know, we don't look at these incentive deals when we're looking to locate somewhere because they've got all these other considerations." - Marty Schladen

We welcome our guest, investigative journalist Marty Schladen from the Ohio Capital Journal, as we explore the origins, operations, and implications JobsOhio, this private corporation that plays a massive role in Ohio's economic landscape.

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Key Highlights from the Episode:

What is JobsOhio? Established in 2011, JobsOhio was championed by former governor John Kasich, intended to run more efficiently as a private corporation rather than a public entity. It manages the state's liquor franchise, and the financial relationship between public funds and private operations is examined.
Economic Impact & Transparency: We discuss the lack of transparency in JobsOhio's operations. With the company not subjected to public audits, questions about its accountability arise. Controversially, Ohio Auditor at the time, Dave Yost (who is now running for governor), was denied the right to audit JobsOhio by the Ohio Supreme Court.
JobsOhio's Claims of Success: The organization claims significant contributions to job creation in Ohio. However, an analysis reveals that 75% of the time, economic incentives provided by JobsOhio to businesses might not influence their decisions to operate in the state, potentially squandering resources that could have been managed publicly.
Public Concerns: We spotlight the real-life implications for residents, particularly those whose lives are disrupted by major economic developments facilitated by JobsOhio, without having a say in these decisions. The conversation also reveals a unique perspective on how one-party rule might affect state politics, growth strategies, and transparency.
Looking Forward: As listeners, you're encouraged to question what JobsOhio's role should be in future economic developments. Does their approach align with modern economic demands, or are they operating on an outdated model?

We loved having Marty Schladen on the show, and he certainly left us with more questions than answers. If you have any insights or thoughts, we'd be thrilled to hear from you!

For those interested in exploring more about Marty's work, check out the Ohio Capital Journal for in-depth investigative articles on various important topics.

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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JobsOhio: Is It Time for Transparency and Accountability? Feb 14, 2025

Show notes

We get into a wide array of topics, starting with a nod to Valentine's Day and the historical significance of this day.

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As our conversation unfolds, we tackle subjects ranging from the implications of Jim Tressel's potential political role in Ohio, insights into the Ukraine-Russia conflict, to the examination of government auditing and finance.

We provide our takes on current events, exploring the intricacies of politics, national security, and the role of transparency in governance. Expect engaging dialogue on topics such as the administrative state, the constitutional power of the presidency, and the accountability measures in place (or lack thereof) for government spending.

Whether it's the explosive revelations about JobsOhio or the federal audit of government agencies, nothing is off the table. This is a thought-provoking journey in this week's episode as we break down what matters, with a common-sense approach, right from the heart of Ohio.

00:00 "Business Consultation and Accounting Help"

06:04 Jim Tressel Becomes Ohio Lt. Governor

15:06 Ukraine Aid Audit Concerns

18:03 Unexpected High Death Rates Analysis

25:40 Social Media Tensions Rise Again

31:04 "Swift Action Precedent Set by Trump"

35:48 Treasury Check Coding Explained

38:14 Media's Shift Against Government Transparency

45:07 JobsOhio's Controversial Setup

48:28 Audit Conditions for Board Extension

57:37 Understanding Presidential Power Limits

59:54 Roberts Limits Supreme Court Power

01:03:48 Alex Soros Claims Global Influence

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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Trump's Influence on Government Spending Transparency Feb 07, 2025

Show notes

February's already breathing down our necks, and if you're here in Columbus, Ohio, like us, you'd know that means the Arnold Festival isn't far off. Steve kicked off today's episode immersing us in a bit of nostalgia with This Day in History, reflecting on when the Beatles first burst onto the American music scene in 1964. It was fascinating to think about the cultural shifts that Beatlemania ushered in, shaping not just music but society at large.

Norm was joining us remotely from sunny Orlando, dropping interesting insights as usual. Our discussion shifted gears rapidly from historical moments to current affairs. There's an overwhelming amount of stuff streaming out of DC these days. Trump seems to be on a mission with all his executive orders, close to 500 now! It's like a whirlwind, and it's tough to catch up.

Norm highlighted Trump's recent appointment of Pam Bondi as Attorney General. Her focus on forming a "weaponization of government" task force at the DOJ is nothing short of bold. She’s looking into whether the DOJ ever had its fingers in politically driven pursuits. It's intriguing, and honestly, no matter which party you're from, rooting out corruption should be a shared goal.

We also touched on a somewhat concerning revelation: the financial dealings of USAID. The money trail leading to organizations like Politico and AP, often perceived to be working against Trump, sparks a debate. Why is taxpayer money fund subscriptions for government employees?

Our conversation steered towards state politics as well, with Vivek Ramaswamy throwing his hat into the Ohio governor's race, competing against Dave Yost. It's going to be fascinating to see how this unfolds. Both bring strong credentials and diverse perspectives to the table.

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And Brett reminded everyone: brace yourselves, Valentine's Day is just a week away. Until next time, keep your common sense hat on, and we'll catch you later!

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Overwhelmed by DC's Rapid Changes

07:30 Corruption Exposure Controversy

10:49 USAID Funded Political Foes

20:36 Government Spending and Resource Waste

23:26 Government Spending and Hidden Agendas

30:45 Small Business Regulatory Challenges

35:41 Logical Definitions in Law

39:40 "Significant Scandals in U.S. History"

46:39 Ohio GOP Tensions Over Vivek

51:10 Military Promotion Lawsuit Concerns

54:27 DEI Impact on Hiring Practices

59:50 Supreme Court to Clarify Presidential Power

01:06:04 Reconnect with Friends

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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Jerry Revish on Balancing Faith, Media, and Community in Modern Times Jan 31, 2025

Show notes

It was, the most wonderful, rewarding work of my life, also the most stressful work of my life. Being able to write that first page of history on whatever the topic was every day was something that it really takes the perspective of being away from it for a while to appreciate what you're you're into and doing every day. Because it's a very, breakneck speed business, even more so today than it was when I started out. And you live on the clock. You're always mindful of this clock. Even today, even though I'm not on the air, I'm still mindful of the clock. It's just it's just part of my life."

Jerry Revish is a dedicated journalist known for his conscientious approach to reporting. Around the editorial table, he consistently advocated for the importance of fair and responsible journalism. He often questioned the relevance of mentioning a person's ethnicity, such as when others felt compelled to identify someone as Hispanic without a clear reason. He believed this practice was influenced by traditional police methods of identification, where race and clothing were used to describe individuals in active crime scenes. Jerry Revish made it a priority to educate his colleagues on thoughtful reporting that avoided unnecessary racial descriptors, thus promoting a more respectful and unbiased media landscape.

Episode Highlights

From Newsroom to Sanctuary: Jerry shares his transition from a 40-year career in journalism to leading the Unity Temple Ministries. His journey proves that passion and purpose can lead to incredible new chapters in life.

The Ethics of Reporting: Jerry discusses the importance of responsible journalism, emphasizing the impact of not racializing news stories and maintaining impartiality, which is crucial for the integrity of the media industry.

Empowering Future Generations: Learn about the initiatives Jerry and his wife, Danielle, lead at their church to empower young women and instill values of self-worth, respect, and community.

Key Takeaways

Merging Media and Ministry: Jerry Revish's seamless transition from broadcast journalism to pastoral work underscores the transferable skills of communication, empathy, and leadership.

Responsible Journalism Matters: Jerry’s commitment to presenting unbiased news and educating reporters on ethical standards highlights the ongoing need for integrity in media.

Youth Empowerment Initiatives: Programs like "Girl Power" in Unity Temple Ministries demonstrate effective ways to support and inspire the next generation, amidst the challenges they face today.

Common Sense Moments

00:00 Praise for Neutral Journalism Approach

09:52 Stepping Down from Chaplaincy

13:57 Breaking News Reporting Challenges

19:55 "Self-Driven Storytelling and Human History"

22:27 Interview with President Obama

29:22 Reflecting on Societal Division Today

32:41 Staying Overnight to Cover Inauguration

40:58 "Rediscovered Faith"

43:21 Accessible Bible Translations Explained

52:22 Empowering Girls in Religious Activities

55:57 Fear and Societal Pressures on Women

59:41 The Dangers of Pride and Expectations

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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A Better Energy Policy for Ohio with The Buckeye Institute Jan 24, 2025

Show notes

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

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Confirmation Bias Jan 17, 2025

Show notes

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

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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Scorched Earth: California Wildfires, Trump Sentencing, and Regulatory Failures Jan 10, 2025

Show notes

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

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

Terrorism On The Rise Jan 03, 2025

Show notes

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.