We dive into some of the hottest issues facing Ohio and the nation.

We kick things off with a lively discussion about the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent “playing hooky” and what that means for Trump and parental rights in education—touching on a controversial Maryland case involving DEI-related curriculum opt-outs.

We look at Ohio-specific stories, including Governor DeWine’s latest mental health initiative for youth, and the ongoing debate: Who really calls the shots in Ohio—the governor, or the parents and communities? The duo reflects on personal values, parenting challenges, and how government intervention is shaping today’s family life.

To round things out, we shine a spotlight on the heated politics of immigration and parolees, exploring how current legal battles and executive actions could have major implications for Ohioans and the country at large. As always, expect sharp common sense, a dash of humor, and plenty of passionate takes on what matters most to Ohio.

Harper CPA Plus

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Common Sense Moments

00:00 Pope's Providential Passing

08:50 Parents' Opt-Out Rights Case

10:48 Parents Challenge School's Sexual Content

19:52 "Debate on Normalizing Gay Marriage"

25:36 Ohio Expands Youth Mobile Response

26:22 Youth Support Service Concerns

35:57 "Biden's Mass Parole Controversy"

36:59 Deportation Hearings Debate

45:01 "The Perils of Undermining Law"

47:37 "Nation's Response to Unlawful Immigration"

56:38 Federal Worker Double-Dipping Bill

59:42 "Criminal Justice System Flaws"

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

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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.