Episodes

  • Can Presidents Get Away with Anything? Supreme Court Weighs In
    Apr 27 2024

    We chew over the big question of presidential power—what happens when a president pushes too far and how does that whole post-office prosecution thing work? It's a tangled web of legal what-ifs that could scare any commander-in-chief.

    We also size up the courts, debating their role in shaping policies, like the thorny issues of Roe v. Wade and race-based scholarships. This discussion is bound to get heated, considering how these decisions ripple through our society.

    And then, we wrestle with free speech, especially on college campuses. What happens when speech codes and protests collide with learning? Plus, scholarships for specific races—constitutional or not? We're breaking it all down.

    Don’t miss our take on the latest government stretch into Title 9 and gender identity, as this could be heading straight for a Supreme Court showdown.

    Common Sense Moments

    05:59 Supreme Court case established three levels of presidential power.

    17:57 Lack of self-sufficiency, ignorance about income.

    23:44 Government can limit free speech with restrictions.

    25:28 Title 6 protects against speech discrimination.

    34:39 Debate over presidential powers and separation of powers.

    37:29 Balancing presidential conduct and political implications, supreme court.

    44:42 Distinguishing intent in legal cases, jury's role.

    51:19 Supreme Court ruling affects race-based scholarships.

    52:18 Controversy over race-based scholarships and Supreme Court.

    01:00:59 University defends open participation, opposes exclusive KKK scholarship.

    01:04:16 Scholarship based on potential, not straight-A students.

    01:07:38 DeSantis challenges federal Title 9 interpretation in Florida.

    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 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.

    Harper CPA Plus

    info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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

    Copyright 2024 Common Sense Ohio

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

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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Central Ohio's Energy Needs Contingency Strategies
    Apr 19 2024

    From the rising tide of women's sports to the challenging waves shaking up the commercial real estate market, we've covered it all.

    We've also eyed energy planning, examined puzzling IRS audit choices, and the complexities at our border security. Remember, real change is about action, from fostering women's basketball to rethinking loan forgiveness with a pinch of service.

    Thanks to our sponsor, Harper CPA Plus, for supporting this journey towards practical wisdom!

    Top Takeaways

    Women's Sports Growth - Recognizing the increasing popularity and investment potential in women's sports, which benefits athletes, fans, and communities.

    Real Estate Market Shifts - Understanding how remote work and changing corporate practices impact commercial real estate and city landscapes, offering new challenges and opportunities for urban planning.

    Energy and Infrastructure - The importance of proactive energy contingency planning for essential services and looking to a mix of power sources, including nuclear, for future energy needs.

    Fair Taxation and Regulation - Discussing the implications of IRS audit focuses and new LLC regulations, reinforcing the need for equitable and reasonable taxation policies.

    National Security & Immigration - Highlighting the issues at the border, showcasing the necessity for effective border control, and a robust vetting process for national security.

    Debt Forgiveness Alternatives - Debating the merit of various approaches to college debt, such as service-based forgiveness programs and other options to forgive or offset student loans.

    Evolving Power Demands - Analyzing the increasing demand for electricity against the backdrop of energy resource retirement, underscores the challenge and need for strategic planning in energy supply.

    Memorable Moments

    00:00 Harper and Company, CPA's - Your go-to firm.

    07:08 State laws prevent unauthorized access to funds.

    18:26 WNBA overcoming prejudice

    22:55 Lima Company memorial unit plans interactive experience.

    28:04 Families find comfort in fallen marine's exhibit.

    36:10 Central Ohio seeing increased power demand from data centers.

    47:20 Safest, cleanest energy options

    57:32 Renewed FISA Act allows illegal surveillance on Americans.

    01:06:02 Man promotes illegal activities, arrested by ICE.

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

    info@commonsenseohioshow.com

    Copyright 2024 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 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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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Cherie Hanna's Fight for Hands-Free Laws in Ohio - "Kendall's TRUTH"
    Apr 12 2024

    Welcome back to Common Sense Ohio, where we just wrapped up an impactful session on the human side of traffic laws and the urgency for hands-free driving.

    Harper CPA Plus

    Our guest Cherie Hanna shared her personal journey, from the tragic loss that led to Ohio's hands-free legislation to her tireless advocacy work.

    She shares the real consequences of distracted driving, the nuances of recent legislation, and the emotional stories that underscore the need for change.

    Get inspired by stories of partnership and commitment to making a difference. Cherie's collaboration with safety groups turns personal grief into societal action. Discover how grassroots activism can lead to substantial legislative reforms and hear from those directly involved in driving change.

    Memorable Moments

    00:00 Texting while driving leads to devastating consequences.

    05:22 Mother's Day, police at door.

    16:29 Ohio passed hands-free law to prevent texting.

    27:01 Media coverage of tragic accident, interviews with survivors.

    41:09 Legislation creates 6-month phase-in for new law.

    Texting & Driving IT CAN WAIT !!! "Kendall's TRUTH"

    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 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 2024 Common Sense Ohio

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    1 hr and 15 mins
  • Medicaid Fraud in Ohio: The $1 Billion Overpayment Crisis
    Apr 5 2024

    Harper CPA Plus

    Kicking off with a real hot-potato topic, we couldn't help but chime in on the Israeli-Gaza conflict. The dynamics are complex and, honestly, heart-wrenching. Innocent lives on both sides pay the price, and the U.S. seems to be taking a hesitant stance, which is frustrating to watch. Do we lead, follow, or simply step aside? And the notion of supplying funds to both sides?

    To keep it local, let’s talk about something that hit close to home – Ohio’s debate over the death penalty. With Dave Yost pushing for nitrogen executions, it’s rattled more than a few cages, including the companies pulling out from supplying the gas. It's a real ethical pickle that got us heated about everything — from the deterrent effect (or the lack of it) of the death penalty to the potential risk of executing the innocent. It seems there's no easy solution, with the cost and moral debate weighing heavily on all sides.

    Wrapping up, as Ohio’s own, we can't let things like the Medicaid overpayment debacle slide by without a spirited chat. $1 billion overpaid? That's a figure worth raising eyebrows over, and you can bet we won't stop worrying about where our hard-earned cash is going.

    Top Takeaways

    1. **Moral Quandaries in Warfare:** The hosts highlight the dilemma of engaging in conflicts where one side adheres to rules of engagement while others might not, illustrating the complexities of modern warfare and its ethical implications.

    2. **US Foreign Policy Scrutiny:** The episode critically examines the US's tentative stance on the Israeli-Gaza conflict, questioning the leadership and motives behind America's actions and the impact of providing financial aid to both sides.

    3. **Death Penalty Debate:** The introduction of nitrogen as a means for executing death sentences in Ohio has sparked ethical discussions and corporate backlash, prompting a broader conversation about the death penalty's efficacy and moral standing.

    4. **Government Efficiency and Accountability:** Hosts reflect on the perceived inefficiencies within government work, emphasizing the importance of personal investment and accountability for responsible fund use, and critiquing processes such as compliance with complicated government forms.

    5. **Cultural and Historical Insights:** The discussion of Tecumseh and the solar eclipse provides listeners with a historical perspective on the cultural significance of natural events and leadership among indigenous peoples.

    6. **Economic Disincentivization:** The episode tackles the issue of welfare abuse and disincentives to work post-COVID, emphasizing the need for cross-state checks and a more autonomous system for managing federal programs.

    7. **Sports and Society:** The hosts share their views on changes in NFL rules, the potential inclusion of women in male-dominated sports, and the ethical considerations in sports gambling, such as the impact of prop bets on college athletes.

    8. **Financial Literacy and Responsibility:** Discussions about financial management, savings, and the importance of checks and balances, whether in households or state welfare systems, underline the need for prudent economic behavior.

    9. **Lottery and Gambling Dynamics:** Addressing the Ohio Lottery and March Madness betting, the hosts discuss the societal implications of state-run gambling, addiction concerns, and the complexity of NCAA sports betting.

    10. **Controversy over End-of-Life Decisions:** A sobering conversation about individuals choosing euthanasia challenges listeners to contemplate the moral and societal ramifications of such choices, especially concerning neurodivergent individuals and those with terminal illnesses.

    Memorable Moments

    00:00 Hitler invaded, criticism of leaders similar today.

    07:02 Israeli bombing of Iranian embassy...

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Killing Our Personal Responsibility with Government Aid
    Mar 29 2024

    Welcome to Common Sense Ohio, your beacon of common sense talk in complex times.

    In this episode, we dissect the collision of personal responsibility and big government. From the far-reaching consequences of a container ship accident and the role of trial lawyers in safety to the implications of public union influence on government decisions, we don’t hold back.

    We consider the historical Presidential defiance of Supreme Court rulings and question policies that favor wealthy entities while claiming to support the blue-collar American.

    Are we nurturing a dependency on government aid at the cost of personal responsibility?

    Top Takeaways

    1. The Importance of Accountability:

    The episode emphasizes the need for holding responsible parties accountable for their actions, particularly in cases such as the accident caused by a container ship.

    2. Public vs. Private Sector Unions:

    The hosts debate the rise of public sector unionization and its impact on government spending and political interests. The political dynamics of public sector unions negotiating with government officials using taxpayer money are highlighted.

    3. The Rule of Law and Separation of Powers:

    The episode brings attention to the importance of upholding the separation of powers and the rule of law as fundamental principles of democracy, as demonstrated by concerns over the defiance of Supreme Court rulings.

    4. Financial Responsibility and Forgiveness:

    A recurrent theme is the skepticism surrounding government financial assistance programs like student loans and the PPP. The potential for creating societal division and undermining personal responsibility when debts are forgiven is discussed extensively.

    5. Lessons from Low-Level Jobs:

    The hosts share anecdotes and argue that low-level jobs, like those in the service industry, teach valuable skills and work ethic. These positions are seen as stepping stones to future career advancement rather than permanent careers.

    6. Second Amendment Debates:

    The conversation includes a dialogue on the Second Amendment in light of a recent legal case and historical perspectives, exploring the rights of citizens versus non-citizens to bear arms and the founding fathers' intentions.

    7. Degree Requirements for Lawyers:

    A law passed in Washington State that allows individuals to practice law without a traditional law degree draws attention in one segment, prompting a discussion about potential changes and regulation within the legal profession.

    8. Government Aid's Diminishing Returns:

    There is an expressed concern that becoming reliant on government financial relief may lead to a reduction in individual responsibility and long-term negative consequences for taxpayers and the economy.

    9. Understanding Context in Communication:

    Highlighting the importance of context, the hosts emphasize careful consideration of sound bites and speeches and media biases in the wider narrative, as seen in media responses to different political figures.

    10. Living by Christian Principles:

    The episode also references Good Friday and the importance of standing up for others, with echoes of Christian teachings and the pursuit of truth as a show goal. This reflects the hosts' engagement with moral and ethical considerations in their discussions.

    Memorable Moments

    00:00 Aid others to find path to morality.

    07:40 Ohio law requires union membership in certain shops.

    18:15 Discussed PPP program and government conditioning.

    20:50 Talk of FEMA, rebellion, COVID, and wealth.

    34:52 Censorship discussed, exploiting platforms for counter-programming.

    37:40 Researched and posted about member's TikTok accounts.

    45:17 Debate on human nature: control vs. self-correction

    54:29 15 states sue over new student loan...

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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • War, Movies, and National Strength - Is Tom Hanks The Answer?
    Mar 22 2024

    🛃 **Navigating Security & Rights**

    We explore the maze of airport security enhancements and TSA inconveniences.

    🔒 **Texas Legal Dispute & Constitutional Quandaries**

    We dissect a Texas law enforcement dispute and the criteria for a law's survival amidst constitutional challenges.

    📜 **Second Amendment Scrutiny**

    What is the constitutionality of denying illegal immigrants the right to bear arms and consider the impact of such decisions on demographics mentioned in "the people" of the Second Amendment?

    🏭 **The Intel Challenge & Manufacturing Concerns**

    Intel’s manufacturing dilemmas, touching upon governmental regulations and talent shortages. We also outline the implications of DEI policies and compare national security interests tied to domestic production—matters with deep repercussions for our state's economy.

    👩‍⚖️ **Litigation Limelight**

    RFK Junior's legal actions against Washington over COVID censorship bring us to broader discussions of legal precedent and civil rights.

    🚔 **Crime Awareness: Word of the Day – "Jugging"**

    📖 **A Nod to Wisdom & Scripture**

    🌍 **Global Context: War, Movies, and National Strength** - Is Tom Hanks the answer?

    Memorable Moments

    12:30 Unconventional candidate seeks change, shuns party politics.

    15:22 Confidence in border control leads to violence.

    18:13 Supreme Court declines to stay Texas immigration law.

    20:24 Texas law enforcement enforces abortion law.

    24:53 Judge debates gun rights, legal standards' impact.

    27:13 TSA introduces self-service screening at Vegas airport.

    31:38 In Ohio, many struggle to define gun bans.

    34:17 People cling to ideology without thinking critically.

    38:05 Crimes committed with mental health issues.

    39:57 Defending individuals in difficult criminal cases is challenging.

    43:09 Imparting morality into job makes representing difficult.

    47:23 Government regulations push tech industry overseas, unbalancing power.

    50:26 Issue with DEI; CHIPS strategic in military.

    55:27 Reflection on guilty vs innocent in court.

    56:00 Insufficient evidence, what about guilty and innocent?

    ---

    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 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.

    Harper CPA Plus

    info@commonsenseohioshow.com

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

    Copyright 2024 Common Sense Ohio

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    1 hr
  • China, Cash, and Corporations - Are You A Traitor?
    Mar 15 2024

    In this episode we tackle the hot-button issue of voting integrity, debate the wisdom of a staggered primary system, and explore the thorny implications of China's economic entanglement with the U.S.

    We dive into the staggering national debt, and discuss the controversial TikTok ban, and its First Amendment ramifications.

    Top Takeaways

    **Scrutiny of the Primary System:** There is a critical examination of the U.S. presidential primary system, questioning the efficacy of staggered dates versus a single primary day. The early primaries' influence on the eventual nominee and the diminishing impact of later primaries are contemplated, opening a discussion on potential system reform.

    **Election Integrity Concerns:** The hosts raise alarms about instances of illegal voting practices, emphasizing the ethical responsibility to uphold the law despite political ideologies. They also express concern about noncitizens being appointed to election boards and how illegal immigrants could influence congressional redistricting.

    **China's Economic Entanglement:** The hosts grapple with the complexity of the U.S. and China's economic relations, stressing the risks of intellectual property theft by China and debating the role of the federal government in mitigating investment risks in regards to China-affiliated corporations.

    **Government Oversight of Investments:** The episode sparks debate over the extent to which the federal government should regulate investments, especially those tied to national adversaries, and the repercussions of divestment for both individual investors and the broader economy.

    **Housing Market Dynamics:** The conversation identifies multiple factors contributing to housing affordability issues, including inflation, high-interest rates, and land regulation. The complications of transforming housing into a commodity are critiqued.

    **Retirement and Social Security Crisis:** Norm, Steve, and Brett address the precarious state of retirement planning in the face of a diminishing workforce and increased national debt. They discuss the challenges that lie ahead for Social Security and retirement benefits, linking it to broader budgetary inaction in Washington.

    **Right-to-Work Implications:** The real-life case of Denise Kogar in Ohio is used as an example of an individual standing up against mandatory union dues, highlighting the implications of being a right-to-work state.

    **The Dilemma of Banning TikTok:** The hosts delve deeply into the implications of government intervention in free speech and the potential ban on TikTok, exploring the balance between national security, censorship, and preserving the First Amendment rights.

    **Voter's Responsibility:** Episodes of voter remorse and the transition from absentee voting being an exception to a norm raise questions about the electorate's responsibility. The hosts stress the significance of informed and deliberate voting, referencing survey results that reveal a troubling trend of intentional lawbreaking in absentee voting.

    Memorable Moments

    00:00 House vote bans TikTok over Chinese ownership.

    16:31 Free society permits speech, faces potential destruction.

    24:56 Desire to understand court decisions on 5th Amendment.

    27:03 Chinese manufacturers steal intellectual property from US.

    32:22 Former UFC wrestler saves parents from fire.

    38:05 Tornado warning disbelief leads to realization.

    44:38 Voter remorse in New Hampshire and other states.

    49:25 Survey found 40% admit to voter fraud.

    56:28 Debate over counting illegal immigrants in districts.

    59:36 Urgent call for fiscal responsibility in politics.

    01:03:49 Morgan Stanley warns of potential US dollar crash.

    01:09:37 Ohio right-to-work law allows opting out.

    Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has...

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • How Far is Too Far When Indicting an Ex-President?
    Mar 8 2024

    Here are the top key takeaway concepts from this episode of "Common Sense Ohio":

    **Recent lawsuit and FOIA revelations - Biden administration ADMITS flying 320,000 migrants secretly into the U.S. to reduce the number of crossings at the border has national security 'vulnerabilities'

    **The discussion around TSA pre-check and airline security led to a broader criticism of the effectiveness of such systems, as well as concerns over their influence on civil liberties.

    **Responsiveness to Crime and Policing**: A local incident involving a truck and subsequent police inaction led to a broader dialogue on crime and its impact on society, including the costs of increased insurance rates and the complexities of law enforcement.

    **Questions on Life's Beginning and Embryo Research**: The Alabama Supreme Court’s Ruling on Frozen Embryos - The hosts deliberated over the debates surrounding abortion legislation, the inception of life, and how these contentious issues intersect with fields like infertility treatment and experimental research.

    **Law Evolution**: The conversation underscored the importance of adapting laws in step with societal change, indicating that the emergence of new definitions requires careful integration into legal systems.

    **Historical Perspectives on Current Events**: By referencing the Lend-Lease Act of 1941 and its contemporary counterpart pertaining to Ukraine, the hosts offered insights on the cyclical nature of geopolitical strategies.

    **Gun Regulation and Sports**: The hosts deliberated on the implications of firearm regulations for Olympic sports athletes, criticizing England's stringent gun club rules and exploring gun permit dynamics across various jurisdictions.

    **The Balance of Presidential Immunity and Accountability**: The debate around the prosecution of former presidents, including a discussion on criminal intent and its implications for political figures, spotlighted the complexity of preserving the integrity of the presidential office while ensuring justice.

    These takeaways encapsulate the vibrant discussions that Norm, Steve, and Brett engaged in, demonstrating their commitment to dissecting pressing issues with depth and a common-sense perspective.

    Memorable Moments

    00:00 Common Sense Ohio brings clarity in chaos.

    06:33 Clarifying statements about sanctuary cities and legislation.

    20:54 Michigan law requires gun permits from sheriff.

    26:20 Alabama court rules human embryo equals unborn child.

    30:08 Advancing technology shifts standards for infant viability.

    36:12 Common law evolved over many years.

    41:52 Supreme Court should decide the Trump issue sooner.

    43:48 Discussing prosecuting a president for specific crimes.

    51:15 Prosecutorial discretion is powerful but imperfect.

    55:06 Supreme Court, prosecute Trump, duty, fair election.

    01:03:45 Questioning the effectiveness of potential new construction zone driving laws.

    01:04:48 Enforcing laws to balance freedom and safety.

    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

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    1 hr and 20 mins