From Bicentennial Patriotism to Digital Dilemmas: What Unites and Divides Us Today
From Bicentennial Patriotism to Digital Dilemmas: What Unites and Divides Us Today  
Podcast: Common Sense Ohio
Published On: Wed Jul 15 2026
Description: How does living without a clear external adversary impact social cohesion and patriotism?Welcome back to another episode of Common Sense Ohio! It’s July 15, 2026, and Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock are diving into a whirlwind of topics shaping our world and community. This week, they kick things off with a reflection on the historical events of July 15th—ranging from the fall of Jerusalem in the First Crusade to the discovery of the Rosetta Stone—and draw modern parallels about unity, common enemies, and the changing nature of American society.From there, Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock debate the generational shifts in patriotism and economic hardship, the allure and dangers of socialism, and the influence of government in every aspect of our lives—from housing policy to proposed government-run children’s accounts. The conversation covers hot-button news from Trump’s policy initiatives, regulatory battles over THC-infused drinks in Ohio, to the disturbing rise in attempts to control children’s access to the internet in the UK and beyond.Harper CPA PlusAs always, the hosts bring their sharp perspectives to issues of crime, immigration policy, government intervention, and even the history and potential abolishment of daylight savings time. Whether you’re looking for hard-hitting opinions, local Ohio stories, or a thoughtful take on the news of the day, this episode delivers plenty to think about. So grab your coffee, buckle in, and let’s get started!Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.info@commonsenseohioshow.comStephen 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