In this episode of The Common Ground Show, Bill and Odell bring their trademark candor and warmth to a wide-ranging conversation at the intersection of education, race, and community leadership. Drawing from their diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to faith, they cut through political noise to explore the real stories behind today’s most pressing issues.
The discussion begins with a critical look at the myths and realities of school quality, unpacking how funding, class sizes, and voucher systems shape opportunities for students—especially in Title I schools and low-income communities. Bill shares personal anecdotes from his time in Scouting, highlighting the transformative power of youth programs and the significance of the Silver Buffalo Award.
As the conversation deepens, they confront challenges facing public education: debates over busing, book bans, birthright citizenship, and shifting political landscapes. Throughout, Bill and Odell emphasize the barriers low-income students face and the essential role of community support in overcoming them.
With humor, honesty, and a commitment to bridging divides, Bill and Odell show how respectful dialogue and shared values can drive real understanding and positive change.

To learn more, please visit our website http://www.thecommonground.show/

This podcast is produced by BG Podcast Network.

Chapters

00:00 Education Myths and Realities
06:01 Honoring Achievements: The Silver Buffalo Award
08:52 The Role of Scouting in Youth Development
11:57 The History and Impact of Scouting
14:54 Personal Stories and Legacy
17:55 Challenges in Education Funding
21:12 The Future of Public Education
23:55 Vouchers and Educational Choices
28:23 Community Foundations and School Funding
29:01 Class Size and Educational Impact
30:48 Understanding Title I Schools
31:44 Barriers for Low-Income Students
32:56 The Role of Community Support
33:54 Budget Allocation and Public Schools
35:11 Challenges in Public Education
36:28 Revisiting Busing Policies
37:52 Adverse Childhood Experiences
39:45 Book Banning in Schools
45:50 Birthright Citizenship and Its Implications
49:21 Political Landscape and Leadership Challenges

In this episode of The Common Ground Show, Bill and Odell bring their trademark candor and warmth to a wide-ranging conversation at the intersection of education, race, and community leadership. Drawing from their diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to faith, they cut through political noise to explore the real stories behind today&rsquo;s most pressing issues. The discussion begins with a critical look at the myths and realities of school quality, unpacking how funding, class sizes, and voucher systems shape opportunities for students&mdash;especially in Title I schools and low-income communities. Bill shares personal anecdotes from his time in Scouting, highlighting the transformative power of youth programs and the significance of the Silver Buffalo Award. As the conversation deepens, they confront challenges facing public education: debates over busing, book bans, birthright citizenship, and shifting political landscapes. Throughout, Bill and Odell emphasize the barriers low-income students face and the essential role of community support in overcoming them. With humor, honesty, and a commitment to bridging divides, Bill and Odell show how respectful dialogue and shared values can drive real understanding and positive change.
To learn more, please visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thecommonground.show/">http://www.thecommonground.show/</a>
This podcast is produced by BG Podcast Network.
Chapters
00:00 Education Myths and Realities 06:01 Honoring Achievements: The Silver Buffalo Award 08:52 The Role of Scouting in Youth Development 11:57 The History and Impact of Scouting 14:54 Personal Stories and Legacy 17:55 Challenges in Education Funding 21:12 The Future of Public Education 23:55 Vouchers and Educational Choices 28:23 Community Foundations and School Funding 29:01 Class Size and Educational Impact 30:48 Understanding Title I Schools 31:44 Barriers for Low-Income Students 32:56 The Role of Community Support 33:54 Budget Allocation and Public Schools 35:11 Challenges in Public Education 36:28 Revisiting Busing Policies 37:52 Adverse Childhood Experiences 39:45 Book Banning in Schools 45:50 Birthright Citizenship and Its Implications 49:21 Political Landscape and Leadership Challenges

Bill and Odell Are Finding Common Ground Podcast

The “Bill and Odell Are Finding Common Ground” podcast is a captivating exploration of shared perspectives and understanding. Hosted by Bill Goebel and Odell Cleveland, this unique show brings together two individuals from vastly different backgrounds: one a Republican and the other a Democrat. Despite their political differences, they share a common bond as devoted Christians who love the Lord and each other.

Here are some key points about the podcast:


Purpose and Theme:
The podcast’s central theme revolves around finding common ground amidst political divisions and racial issues.
Bill and Odell engage in candid conversations, seeking areas of agreement and understanding.


Episodes and Topics:
Each week, Bill and Odell delve into thought-provoking topics.
In Episode 164, titled “Down The Mountain Road” (aired on March 22, 2024), they draw compelling parallels between a perilous mountain road trip and the political landscape in North Carolina.
They explore the roles of Lt. Governor Mark Robinson and Republican Chairman Michael Whatley, as well as their connections to former President Donald Trump1.


Mission and Impact:
The podcast aims to bridge gaps, foster dialogue, and promote understanding.
Bill and Odell’s commitment to respectful discourse sets an example for listeners.


Where to Listen:
You can tune in to the podcast on various platforms:

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Omny Studio
BG Podcast Network


Takeaway:
Bill and Odell’s commitment to finding common ground reminds us that respectful dialogue can lead to understanding, even in a politically charged world.

For more information, visit their website: TheCommonGround.show.



This podcast is produced by BG Podcast Network.

For advertising inquiries, please reach out to J.southerland@bgadgroup.com



For more information be sure to visit https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/

Bill and Odell Are Finding Common Ground Podcast
The “Bill and Odell Are Finding Common Ground” podcast is a captivating exploration of shared perspectives and understanding. Hosted by Bill Goebel and Odell Cleveland, this unique show brings together two individuals from vastly different backgrounds: one a Republican and the other a Democrat. Despite their political differences, they share a common bond as devoted Christians who love the Lord and each other.
Here are some key points about the podcast:
<ol>
<li>
Purpose and Theme:
<ul>
<li>The podcast’s central theme revolves around finding common ground amidst political divisions and racial issues.</li>
<li>Bill and Odell engage in candid conversations, seeking areas of agreement and understanding.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Episodes and Topics:
<ul>
<li>Each week, Bill and Odell delve into thought-provoking topics.</li>
<li>In Episode 164, titled “Down The Mountain Road” (aired on March 22, 2024), they draw compelling parallels between a perilous mountain road trip and the political landscape in North Carolina.</li>
<li><a href="https://thecommonground.show/" data-citationid="9dc5ee9b-44bf-e4ee-2f8d-7a3f1d7a8b0c-28-group">They explore the roles of Lt. Governor Mark Robinson and Republican Chairman Michael Whatley, as well as their connections to former President Donald Trump</a><a href="https://thecommonground.show/" data-citationid="9dc5ee9b-44bf-e4ee-2f8d-7a3f1d7a8b0c-28" aria-label="1: Donald Trump">1</a>.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Mission and Impact:
<ul>
<li>The podcast aims to bridge gaps, foster dialogue, and promote understanding.</li>
<li>Bill and Odell’s commitment to respectful discourse sets an example for listeners.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Where to Listen:
<ul>
<li>You can tune in to the podcast on various platforms:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1BabcrCYUq50dwry8OwfSJ">Spotify</a></li>
<li><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bill-and-odell-are-finding-common-ground/id1579910074">Apple Podcasts</a></li>
<li><a href="https://omny.fm/shows/finding-common-ground/playlists/podcast">Omny Studio</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/podcasts/bill-and-odell-are-finding-common-ground">BG Podcast Network</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Takeaway:
<ul>
<li>Bill and Odell’s commitment to finding common ground reminds us that respectful dialogue can lead to understanding, even in a politically charged world.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>
For more information, visit their website: <a href="http://www.thecommonground.show/">TheCommonGround.show</a>.
 
This podcast is produced by BG Podcast Network.
For advertising inquiries, please reach out to <a href="mailto:J.southerland@bgadgroup.com">J.southerland@bgadgroup.com</a>
 
For more information be sure to visit <a href="https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/</a>

Bill and Odell Are Finding Common Ground

Bill and Odell are Finding Common Ground, hosted by Bill Goebel and Odell Cleveland is intended to see the middle ground on hot button topics in America today. One Republican, one Democrat, one black, one white, both devoted Christians that love the Lord and one another! Follow each week as Bill and Odell Find Common Ground! 

To learn more, please visit our website http://www.thecommonground.show/

The mission of Common Ground Show is to inspire people to find the things that create a bond with their fellow man. While many seek to divide us, we believe that no matter our differences, we all can find a common ground to come together and walk this journey of life in unity. Using the example of our unique friendship, we encourage everyone to maintain their individuality while appreciating and respecting the individuality of others.

Bill Goebel- Bill has thirty years of experience in senior management in training, marketing, sales, licensing, manufacturing, importing & exporting, and finance. Bill teaches many subject areas including culture change, leadership, LEAN, troubleshooting, problem-solving, and team building. He has provided instruction to over 30 different organizations. He is the owner and President of MPACT Solutions LLC, a training company that provides online and hands-on instruction. MPACT has a propriety online skill assessment for identifying the technical skill gap for maintenance technicians and machine operators. He also owns a franchise of Focus CFO, a provider of fractional CFOs. He has been on numerous boards for both profit and nonprofit organizations. He recently served on a team that started a bank to service small business commercial loans in NC. Bill is an Eagle Scout and currently serves as Vice-Chair of Territory 15 of BSA. He is a Silver Beaver and Silver Antelope Award recipient, and a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow. He served as Area 7 President for BSA. For the past 18 years, he has mentored high school boys from his local church. He has been on 13 short-term mission trips to underprivileged areas of the USA, Cuba, and Israel. He has traveled to over 42 countries. He is married to Dori and has three children Will, Jessa, and Elisa Kay. He studied at Harvard, Case Western University in Cleveland, Roosevelt University in Chicago. His degree is in Business Management from Cleveland State University.

Odell Cleveland- Odell is a nationally recognized leader helping diverse groups reach common ground related to pressing social problems. He has decades of experience in business and nonprofit agency leadership, as well as expertise related to addressing tough societal issues. Having grown up in poverty, he has seen safety nets turn into hammocks. One of his goals is to help individuals untangle these hammocks/safety nets and lead productive and fulfilling lives. He provides consulting services to individuals and other organizations, with specific expertise related to poverty, welfare reform, and community relations. Odell has been called on by national think tanks such as the Urban Institute and the American Enterprise Institute, as well as many local and regional organizations to provide insights that lead to solutions. He is a motivational speaker, executive trainer, and an esteemed meeting facilitator, leading diverse groups through tough issues and uncomfortable conversations, while at the same time understanding the common ground that leads to positive solutions. On the administrative front in the nonprofit world, he has expertise in legal requirements related to setting up and running agencies, board member selection and training, controlling growth, financial stability, preventing mission drift, and understands the business skills required to accomplish agency mission.

This podcast is produced by BG Podcast Network.

For advertising inquiries email J.southerland@bgadgroup.com

for more information visit https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/

Bill and Odell are Finding Common Ground, hosted by Bill Goebel and Odell Cleveland is intended to see the middle ground on hot button topics in America today. One Republican, one Democrat, one black, one white, both devoted Christians that love the Lord and one another! Follow each week as Bill and Odell Find Common Ground!&nbsp;
To learn more, please visit our website <a href="http://www.thecommonground.show/">http://www.thecommonground.show/</a>
The mission of Common Ground Show is to inspire people to find the things that create a bond with their fellow man. While many seek to divide us, we believe that no matter our differences, we all can find a common ground to come together and walk this journey of life in unity. Using the example of our unique friendship, we encourage everyone to maintain their individuality while appreciating and respecting the individuality of others.
Bill Goebel- Bill has thirty years of experience in senior management in training, marketing, sales, licensing, manufacturing, importing &amp; exporting, and finance. Bill teaches many subject areas including culture change, leadership, LEAN, troubleshooting, problem-solving, and team building. He has provided instruction to over 30 different organizations. He is the owner and President of MPACT Solutions LLC, a training company that provides online and hands-on instruction. MPACT has a propriety online skill assessment for identifying the technical skill gap for maintenance technicians and machine operators. He also owns a franchise of Focus CFO, a provider of fractional CFOs. He has been on numerous boards for both profit and nonprofit organizations. He recently served on a team that started a bank to service small business commercial loans in NC. Bill is an Eagle Scout and currently serves as Vice-Chair of Territory 15 of BSA. He is a Silver Beaver and Silver Antelope Award recipient, and a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow. He served as Area 7 President for BSA. For the past 18 years, he has mentored high school boys from his local church. He has been on 13 short-term mission trips to underprivileged areas of the USA, Cuba, and Israel. He has traveled to over 42 countries. He is married to Dori and has three children Will, Jessa, and Elisa Kay. He studied at Harvard, Case Western University in Cleveland, Roosevelt University in Chicago. His degree is in Business Management from Cleveland State University.
Odell Cleveland- Odell is a nationally recognized leader helping diverse groups reach common ground related to pressing social problems. He has decades of experience in business and nonprofit agency leadership, as well as expertise related to addressing tough societal issues. Having grown up in poverty, he has seen safety nets turn into hammocks. One of his goals is to help individuals untangle these hammocks/safety nets and lead productive and fulfilling lives. He provides consulting services to individuals and other organizations, with specific expertise related to poverty, welfare reform, and community relations. Odell has been called on by national think tanks such as the Urban Institute and the American Enterprise Institute, as well as many local and regional organizations to provide insights that lead to solutions. He is a motivational speaker, executive trainer, and an esteemed meeting facilitator, leading diverse groups through tough issues and uncomfortable conversations, while at the same time understanding the common ground that leads to positive solutions. On the administrative front in the nonprofit world, he has expertise in legal requirements related to setting up and running agencies, board member selection and training, controlling growth, financial stability, preventing mission drift, and understands the business skills required to accomplish agency mission.
This podcast is produced by BG Podcast Network.
For advertising inquiries email <a href="mailto:J.southerland@bgadgroup.com">J.southerland@bgadgroup.com</a>
for more information visit <a href="https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/">https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/</a>

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