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  • The "Smither-vent" - Episode 121 - The Secrecy of Executive Sessions

    The "Smither-vent" - Episode 121 - The Secrecy of Executive Sessions
    Jan 13 2026
    The conversation delves into the issues surrounding the secrecy of executive sessions held by the Cincinnati city council, the implications of police-involved incidents, and the role of media in ensuring government transparency. The speakers discuss the legal ramifications of the council's actions and the importance of public accountability in governance. They emphasize the need for open communication between the government and the public to maintain trust and integrity in city governance.

    Takeaways
    • The lack of transparency in government meetings is concerning.
    • Public accountability is essential for trust in governance.
    • Executive sessions should have clear agendas disclosed to the public.
    • The implications of police-involved incidents affect community trust.
    • Media plays a crucial role in holding government accountable.
    • Elections have consequences that impact governance and public trust.
    • Legal ramifications can arise from government secrecy.
    • Community engagement is vital for effective governance.
    • The morale of law enforcement is affected by public perception.
    • Healthy journalism is necessary for a transparent government.
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    18 Min.
  • The "Smither-vent" - Episode 120 - Settlement Negotiations and Public Accountability

    The "Smither-vent" - Episode 120 - Settlement Negotiations and Public Accountability
    Jan 12 2026
    In this conversation, Christopher Smitherman discusses the pressing political issues in Cincinnati, focusing on settlement negotiations, public safety, and the accountability of city officials. He expresses concerns about the lack of transparency in city council decisions and the implications for taxpayers. The discussion also touches on broader cultural issues regarding law enforcement and the upcoming elections, emphasizing the need for community engagement and accountability in governance.

    Takeaways
    • The city council's decision-making process lacks transparency.
    • Settlement negotiations should involve public input and scrutiny.
    • Public safety is a critical concern for the community.
    • There is a growing frustration with how taxpayer money is being spent.
    • Cultural attitudes towards law enforcement are shifting and need to be addressed.
    • Elections have significant consequences for local governance.
    • Community engagement is essential for accountability in politics.
    • The political landscape is changing, with new candidates emerging.
    • There is a need for a fresh perspective in Ohio's governance.
    • Values, not race, should guide discussions on law enforcement and public policy.
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    21 Min.
  • The "Smither-vent" - Episode 119 - Mayor Purval can't pay his own car yet he wants more of your money

    The "Smither-vent" - Episode 119 - Mayor Purval can't pay his own car yet he wants more of your money
    Jan 7 2026
    The conversation delves into the challenges faced by the city of Cincinnati regarding its budget, the implications of proposed tax increases, and the impact on public safety and community welfare. Christopher Smitherman expresses concerns about the management of city funds, the prioritization of spending, and the effects of crime on local businesses and residents. They argue that the current administration is not adequately addressing the needs of the community and is instead opting for tax increases without making necessary budget cuts.

    takeaways
    • The city budget is akin to a household budget, requiring careful management.
    • Raising taxes without addressing spending issues is irresponsible.
    • Public safety funding is often used as a political tool.
    • The current administration is not prioritizing police funding effectively.
    • Tax increases disproportionately affect low-income residents.
    • There is a lack of transparency in how tax dollars are spent.
    • Crime rates are impacting the willingness of people to visit the city.
    • Businesses rely on a safe environment to thrive.
    • The narrative around public safety is being manipulated for political gain.
    • Community engagement is crucial for effective governance.
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    20 Min.
  • The "Smither-vent" - Episode 118 - The Mayor and Council have blood on their hands

    The "Smither-vent" - Episode 118 - The Mayor and Council have blood on their hands
    Jan 5 2026
    "This Should Not Have Happened!!"

    Christopher Smitherman discusses the tragic shooting of an 11-year-old girl playing in the West End, reflecting on the implications for community safety and the political accountability of local leaders. He expresses frustration over the lack of action from the city government regarding crime prevention measures, particularly in the West End community.

    takeaways
    • The tragic shooting of an 11-year-old girl raises serious concerns about community safety.
    • There is a strong emotional connection between fathers and daughters, especially in the context of violence.
    • Political leaders have a responsibility to ensure safety measures are in place in communities.
    • The West End community has been advocating for safety measures that have not been implemented.
    • The lack of response from local government after repeated incidents of violence is alarming.
    • Community engagement and accountability are crucial in addressing crime.
    • The political landscape can often overshadow the immediate needs of the community.
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    18 Min.
  • The "Smither-vent" - Episode 117 - Our Corrupt Government at City Hall

    The "Smither-vent" - Episode 117 - Our Corrupt Government at City Hall
    Dec 22 2025
    Former Vice Mayor Christopher Smitherman discusses the corruption surrounding local elections in Cincinnati, focusing on the lack of transparency from city officials regarding settlement talks and the implications for taxpayers. He also highlights the issue of Medicaid fraud in Minnesota, criticizing the political response and calling for accountability in government spending.

    takeaways
    • We were all lied to in Cincinnati regarding local elections.
    • The public deserves transparency from city officials.
    • Corruption in local government impacts taxpayer trust.
    • Media outlets failed to investigate crucial election-related information.
    • Settlement talks were hidden from the public before the election.
    • Elections have consequences, and voters must be informed.
    • Medicaid fraud is a significant issue affecting low-income Americans.
    • Political accountability is necessary for government integrity.
    • Corruption often goes unchallenged due to political interests.
    • Identity politics can distract from discussions about corruption.
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    22 Min.
  • The "Smither-vent" - Episode 116 - Elections have consequences

    The "Smither-vent" - Episode 116 - Elections have consequences
    Dec 15 2025
    Former Vice Mayor Christopher Smitherman delves into serious topics such as anti-Semitism, gun control, and the heroism displayed in Australia. Christopher also discusses the implications of political decisions on local governance and the importance of youth engagement in the electoral process. Avoid class warfare and the nature of political discourse in today's society, emphasizing the need for accountability and informed voting.




    • Anti-Semitism is a complex issue that needs understanding.
    • Heroism can manifest in unexpected ways during crises.
    • Gun control debates often overlook the role of individuals.
    • Political engagement is crucial for youth, especially first-time voters.
    • Local elections significantly impact governance and community safety.
    • Vivek Ramaswamy is seen as a strong candidate for Ohio governor.
    • The importance of voting for the entire ticket, not just high-profile races.
    • Class warfare is a tactic used in political discourse.
    • Public safety is a shared responsibility among citizens.
    • Elections have real consequences on local policies and governance.
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    23 Min.
  • The "Smither-vent" - Episode 115 - If you can't budget your own finances, how can you run a city?

    The "Smither-vent" - Episode 115 - If you can't budget your own finances, how can you run a city?
    Dec 8 2025
    18 Min.
  • The "Smither-vent" - Episode 114 - We have a lot to be thankful for

    The "Smither-vent" - Episode 114 - We have a lot to be thankful for
    Dec 1 2025
    Thanksgiving should be a time of gratitude and togetherness, but for some, it becomes a reminder of sacrifice and loss. Christopher Smitherman joins us again on the 55KRC Morning Show to share his profound reflections on a tragic incident that shook military families across the nation. With the ambush of two National Guard members still fresh in our minds, Christopher opens up about the raw emotions and fears that come with having a child in uniform, drawing from his personal experience as a father whose son serves in the Guard. This heartfelt discussion focuses on the importance of standing united, setting aside political differences to honor those who serve..


    We then pivot to the upcoming Tennessee election and its potential ripple effects on the 2026 political landscape. With a Democrat making surprising strides in a traditionally Republican stronghold, this race is heating up in unexpected ways. We discuss the dynamics at play, including the Democratic candidate's controversial remarks about Tennessee and country music, and how they might influence the election's outcome. Christopher offers his insights into whether the Republicans can maintain their stronghold and what this could mean for the future balance of Congress.
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    23 Min.