Common Sense Ohio

• Marty Schladen Explains Ohio’s Pharmacy Benefit Manager Crisis and Drug Pricing Reform

  This story may be one of the unknowns to Ohioans, but we look into the hidden world of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), broken healthcare incentives, and the collapse of community pharmacies.We welcome Marty Schladen from Ohio Capital Journal back to the podcast. AND we took a detour through Ohio’s energy controversy and—yes—why Alcatraz is back in the headlines.3 Key Takeaways:PBMs & Hidden Healthcare Costs: The lack of transparency with pharmacy benefit managers drives up prices for everyone, even leading to $250M in excess costs in Ohio Medicaid alone. It’s a tangle of rebates, “safe harbors,” and backdoor deals that rarely save money for actual patients.Pharmacy Deserts Are Real: Ohio’s local, independent pharmacies are closing at an alarming rate, threatening access to care in underserved areas. When a pharmacy shuts down, it’s not just a business lost—it’s often the only healthcare touchpoint for miles.Bi-Partisan Reform is Gaining Steam: From Ohio’s Attorney General to 39 state AGs teaming up, there’s momentum to fix the system—by enforcing transparency, capping “middleman” profits, and ending conflicts of interest (like PBMs owning retail pharmacies).Special thanks to Marty for the clarity and to all listeners who care about a fairer, healthier future for Ohio.Harper CPA Plus Key Moments00:00 Ohio's PBM Safe Harbor History08:23 Pharmacy Pricing Investigation in Ohio14:15 Cancer Clinics Frustrated by PBMs20:02 Locked-In Government Revenue Politics21:03 Ohio Medicaid Reform Saves $333M31:06 Unregulated Drug Compounding Issues36:19 Jim Jordan's FTC Reallocation Proposal39:41 EV Rebate Removed, Elon Affected46:49 Discussion on House Bill 1549:06 House Bill 15: Environmental Concerns55:07 "3 Mile Island vs. Chernobyl"01:03:11 Ohio's Health vs. Corporate [email protected] Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio 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.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. Mentioned in this episode:Harper CPA Plus

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• Here Comes The Judge, There Goes The Judge

  The team kicks things off with historical reflections on George Washington's inauguration and the Louisiana Purchase before steering into current events, like the recent suspensions of judges in New Mexico and Wisconsin for shocking courtroom misconduct.You'll hear the hosts’ candid takes on the responsibilities that come with upholding the law, as they dissect what happens when those in power break or bend the rules for their own moral reasons. The conversation doesn’t stop there: they also dive into the economics of electric trucks, dissect why Toledo was recently ranked the #1 market in America, and debate the fairness and effectiveness of big tax incentive packages for businesses in Ohio.From judicial ethics to the cost of brand new pickups, and the ongoing debate over DEI policies and free speech on campuses, nothing is off limits at this roundtable. If you’re ready for lively, informed, and unfiltered talk about the issues affecting Ohio and beyond, this episode has got you covered. 3 Key Takeaways:Judicial Accountability Matters: We explored recent stories where judges overstepped legal bounds—including a Wisconsin judge who facilitated a defendant’s escape—highlighting why trust in the judiciary relies on their impartial compliance with the law.Ohio Real Estate Surprises: Toledo took the top spot in the Wall Street Journal’s ranking of affordable and desirable real estate markets, but as the discussion revealed, economics and regional trends don’t always make perfect sense on paper.Government, Business & Equity: From billion-dollar tax credits to state-level DEI reforms, this episode dug into how government intervention can shape (and sometimes complicate) the playing field for businesses and individuals in Ohio.Harper CPA Plus We have our moments00:00 Judges Involved in Criminal Scandals05:29 Judge Aids Defendant's Escape11:09 Wisconsin's Policy on ICE Coordination20:38 Jeff Bezos-Backed Slate Trucks25:06 Toledo: Top City for Homebuyers31:18 Ohio Tech Job Investment32:52 Grant Bias and Taxpayer Impact42:19 DEI Concerns on Liberal Campuses47:14 Freedom of Speech and Discrimination Debate50:31 Client Notification and Ethical Concerns55:32 Executive Orders: A Shift in Perspective?59:03 "Trump's Immigration Policies Praised"Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. 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.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. [email protected] Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio Mentioned in this episode:

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  1:04:52
• Playing Hookie with KBJ, Easy Come Easy Go, and Who's Your Daddy?

  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 [email protected] Common Sense Moments00:00 Pope's Providential Passing08:50 Parents' Opt-Out Rights Case10:48 Parents Challenge School's Sexual Content19:52 "Debate on Normalizing Gay Marriage"25:36 Ohio Expands Youth Mobile Response26:22 Youth Support Service Concerns35:57 "Biden's Mass Parole Controversy"36:59 Deportation Hearings Debate45:01 "The Perils of Undermining Law"47:37 "Nation's Response to Unlawful Immigration"56:38 Federal Worker Double-Dipping Bill59:42 "Criminal Justice System Flaws"Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/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.

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  1:04:42
• Letitia James Fraud, Chillicothe Paper Mill Closing, and Yost Pharma War

  We hope you're well and enjoying the spring sunshine! Here's a quick rundown of what Norm and Brett covered this week:Letitia James Fraud Allegations: The tables have turned as New York's Attorney General Letitia James finds herself under scrutiny. After prosecuting Trump, she's now facing accusations from the Federal Home Loan Administration regarding her own mortgage irregularities. Is it a case of "turnabout is fair play"? Dive into the details as Norm and Brett unpack this unfolding story.Chillicothe Paper Mill Closure: It's a tough time for the folks in Chillicothe as the historic paper mill announces its closure, affecting 800 jobs. Norm voices his concerns about the state’s response and the implications for local communities. What should Ohio's leaders be doing to save these essential jobs?Yost in Pharma War: Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost takes a bold stance against Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), joining forces with other state AGs to advocate for legislative changes. Could this lead to more affordable pharmaceuticals for Ohioans? Norm and Brett explore this complex issue.Market Madness: The unpredictable nature of Wall Street traders has our hosts questioning the professionals at play. With markets recently taking a rollercoaster ride, Brett and Norm discuss what this means for everyday investors and the economy.Spotlight on Local and National Headlines: The episode also dives into other intriguing topics like road rage incidents, outrageous legal stories, and the latest economic news that's affecting us all.As always, a huge thank you Harper CPA Plus for sponsoring this insightful episode. They are the go-to experts for simplifying taxes and empowering entrepreneurs.Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. [email protected] 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. Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

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  1:06:15
• Ohio Budget Bill, Browns, and Braden's Law

  Exciting updates from the latest episode of Common Sense Ohio! Dive into the complexities of Ohio's budget bill, intriguing sports funding policies, and significant changes in education laws. Here's what you missed:Budget & Economy: The volatility in the stock market reflects the broader economic landscape, highlighting the impact of U.S.-China trade relations and how only a small percentage of Americans directly engage with stock investments.Sports Funding Revolution: Innovative legislation suggests tying public funding for sports stadiums to team performance, potentially changing the game for taxpayer-funded ventures.Education Dynamics: The expansion of school choice vouchers in Ohio signifies a shift in educational funding, with more support for diverse schooling options outside the traditional public system.Harper CPA Plus 00:00 Stock Market vs. Global Economy09:49 Ohio Budget: Real Estate Tax Concerns15:32 Fraud Uncovered in Cabinet Meeting18:38 Congress Urged for NIL Regulation25:57 Procter & Gamble's Inventory Tax Challenge27:21 Ohio Eliminates Inventory Tax Due to Kentucky34:36 Cleveland Bond & Stadium Costs39:46 "Ohio Budget Boosts School Vouchers"45:22 Ohio's Off-Campus Education Law Challenge53:03 Equal Opportunity for All Careers55:19 Parental Consent and School Disclosure01:02:24 Principal Blocks Police Response to Bomb Threat01:04:36 Pro-Tariff Stance on ChinaStephen 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. Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH. [email protected] Copyright 2025 Common Sense Ohio https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

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  1:10:33

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