Welcome to Common Sense Ohio, where rivers run backwards, day is night, and the unexpected is just part of the landscape.

It's April Fool's, after all!

Hosts Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock, joined by guest Troy, dive into a whirlwind of current events, hard-hitting legal analysis, and local Ohio news, all with their signature common-sense edge.

This episode explores the history and quirks of April Fools' Day, then transitions to a breakdown of significant Supreme Court cases, including challenges to birthright citizenship and a major free speech decision from Colorado. Our hosts debate constitutional intent, explore the evolution of common law, and probe the shifting stance of organizations like the ACLU.

They also examine Ohio's new legislation banning intoxicating hemp products, discuss federal-local law enforcement partnerships, and highlight the role of protests and democracy in our society.

Wrapping up with winners and losers of the week, reflections on faith, and a glimpse into Ohio’s sports scene, this episode is a lively, thought-provoking mix of the absurd, the serious, and the surprisingly uplifting.

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Key Takeaways:

1. Free Speech Still Reigns Supreme
2. History Shapes Today’s Legal Landscape
3. America’s Role in Innovation and Security

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.

Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock get into a wide range of hot-button issues shaping Ohio and the nation.

From a fascinating look at Dave Thomas’ legacy as an adoption advocate and the roots of Wendy’s in Columbus, to a deep discussion about the recent chaos at airports and the politics behind funding TSA and Homeland Security, the conversation is as timely as it is insightful.

The hosts also explore the country’s Judeo-Christian foundations through Revolutionary War history, dig into the heated debate over the SAVE Act and voter identification, and break down the controversy surrounding secret NDAs and massive tax incentives fueling the data center boom in Ohio.

Plus, they cover big news in tech law with a $375 million verdict against Meta for child endangerment, take on the latest in the Iran conflict, and spotlight the Columbus Blue Jackets’ surprising playoff surge.

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Moments

00:00 "Dave Thomas: Adoption Advocate"

05:00 Biblical Roots of U.S. Founding

08:16 Defunding DHS: A Divisive Debate

11:52 Democrats' Minneapolis Win Uncertain

14:31 "Short-Term vs Long-Term Strategy"

18:14 Free Citizen ID for Voting

19:41 "Unregistered Births on Reservations"

24:25 "Iranian Conflict: No End Ahead"

27:01 Meta Faces Landmark Liability Case

32:03 "JobsOhio's Secretive Funding Explained"

36:14 Land Buyouts Reshape New Albany

39:05 "Local Betrayal Over Intel Deal"

40:29 Supreme Court Debate on Ballots

45:15 "Brave Pilots in Collision"

49:44 "Protester Deaths, J6 & Impact"

50:43 "Weekly Common Sense Recap"

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

On this episode of Common Sense Ohio, hosts Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock take listeners on a lively ride through both history and hot-button issues facing Ohio and the nation.

The show kicks off with some fascinating "this day in history" moments, from Elvis Presley's $1,000 down payment on Graceland to George Washington’s strategic triumph over the British in Boston. Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock reflect on simpler times, the complexity of historic figures, and draw surprising connections to today's world.

The conversation shifts to the rapidly changing international climate, with in-depth analysis of current tensions in the Middle East, debates over national defense funding, and the political fallout from controversial decisions in Congress. The hosts don’t shy away from tough questions—whether it’s the justification behind conflict with Iran, national security concerns at the border, or the demands placed on the Department of Homeland Security.

Closer to home, the episode covers the political quagmire around voter ID laws and election reform, pulls back the curtain on Ohio’s JobsOhio controversy, and celebrates a small-town legal victory where civil liberties prevailed in a comedic case involving rapper Afro Man.

Throughout, Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock bring a sharp mix of historical perspective, constitutional insight, and relatable local stories—reminding us all why common sense still matters most in the Buckeye State.

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Moments

00:00 Washington Forces British From Boston

08:24 Straits of Hormuz Tensions

13:44 "Joe Kent's Resignation Fallout"

16:23 "Iran's Hostility Toward America"

26:15 ID Rules and Constitutional Debate

30:03 EPA Climate Rollback Sparks Lawsuit

35:09 "Iran: War, Oppression, and Resistance"

39:48 "Afro Man's Lemon Pound Cake Lawsuit"

46:19 "Probable Cause and Search Warrants"

52:58 "Good Intentions Sustain Governance"

54:14 "Controversy Over JobsOhio Corporation"

59:06 Contract Secrecy Sparks Ohio Backlash

01:05:07 "Tyranny of Moral Busybodies"

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

Copyright 2026 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.

Welcome back to Common Sense Ohio! In this episode, Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock dive into the whirlwind of current events, offering their signature blend of historical perspective, common sense, and candid conversation. Kicking things off with reflections on March 11th in history, they discuss the legacy of the Lend-Lease Act and how America’s reluctant involvement in global affairs resonates in today’s headlines.

From there, the conversation pivots to the complexities of presidential war powers, the ongoing tensions with Iran, and the challenging realities of nuclear proliferation. Norm Murdock brings in deep dives on military history, while Steve Palmer unpacks what happens when American leadership faces tough choices on the world stage.

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Back on the home front, the hosts don’t hold back as they critique Ohio’s political landscape, including Governor DeWine’s recent State of the State address, the implications of new data centers, and the everyday frustrations of Ohio commuters. As always, they close with a look at the good and the bad in the week—mixing national security, leadership, sacrifice, and a dash of pop culture.

So, whether you’re looking for thoughtful analysis, a dash of history, or just a little honest talk about what’s going on in the Buckeye State and beyond, you’re in the right place. Hit play and get your weekly dose of Common Sense Ohio!

00:00 Passenger Ships as War Targets

06:30 Washington's Commander Guard Origins

14:35 War Powers and Constitutional Debate

20:52 "Questioning Government Power Levers"

21:46 "Elections Shape Power Dynamics"

27:43 Middle East Conflict and Tensions

33:46 Sacrifice and Lost Patriotism

39:05 "Cluelessness and Global Threats"

45:23 "Construction Work and Moral Responsibility"

51:44 Deeper Meaning of Ten Commandments

56:55 Government Overreach and Parenting Critique

01:01:11 "Saluting Modern-Day Heroes"

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.

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

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

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

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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

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

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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

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/