From self‑driving Teslas to geopolitics and rising property taxes, this episode dives into the issues shaping everyday American life. The Common Ground crew tackles AI addiction, drone warfare, midterm election uncertainty, and why local politics may matter more than ever. With humor, personal stories, and unfiltered debate, they explore how technology, faith, leadership, and community collide in a rapidly changing world.

To learn more, please visit our website The Common Ground

This podcast is produced by BG Podcast Network.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Banter
01:42 Faith, Opening Prayers, and Setting the Tone
03:25 Teslas, Technology, and Full Self‑Driving Stories
06:40 AI, ChatGPT, and Everyday Use
09:08 Drones, Ukraine, and Global Conflict
11:36 China, Oil, and Geopolitical Shifts
13:57 Stoicism, Stress, and Personal Resilience
16:22 NASCAR, Revenue Battles, and Sports Politics
18:48 Gas Prices, EVs, and the Future of Energy
21:09 Midterms, Voting Systems, and Local Leadership
23:31 Sheriff Races, Political Strategy, and Community Impact
25:46 Property Taxes, Housing, and Economic Pressures
28:10 Local Government, Schools, and Policy Battles
32:52 Podcasts, Lobbyists, and the Political Landscape
35:15 National Security, Protests, and Law Enforcement
37:26 Guns, Safety, and Training
41:54 ICE, Immigration, and Public Perception
46:29 Federal Spending, Contracts, and Accountability
48:46 Settlements, Lawsuits, and Legal Realities
50:57 Development, Real Estate, and Local Challenges
53:18 Business Cycles, Restaurants, and Staying Ahead
55:39 Public vs. Private Solutions for Schools
58:06 Taxes, Endowments, and the Cost of Government
01:00:27 Universities, Tuition, and Student Life
01:02:48 Sports, Academics, and the Carolina Way
01:05:05 NIL, College Athletics, and the Future
01:07:27 Franklin Street, Campus Culture, and Change
01:09:27 Tuition, Out‑of‑State Costs, and Access
01:11:49 Business, Economy, and American Identity
01:14:12 Media, Politics, and Public Influence
01:16:38 Local Council, Pressure, and Governing
01:19:04 Epstein, Scandals, and Public Curiosity
01:21:20 Prison Systems, Justice, and Reality
01:22:48 Race, Society, and Cultural History
01:24:48 Africa, Identity, and Travel Reflections
01:27:09 Food, Culture, and the Diaspora
01:29:26 DNA, Family Stories, and Heritage
01:33:17 Race, Class, and Shared History
01:35:40 Closing Thoughts and Shout‑Outs

From self‑driving Teslas to geopolitics and rising property taxes, this episode dives into the issues shaping everyday American life. The Common Ground crew tackles AI addiction, drone warfare, midterm election uncertainty, and why local politics may matter more than ever. With humor, personal stories, and unfiltered debate, they explore how technology, faith, leadership, and community collide in a rapidly changing world.
To learn more, please visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thecommonground.show/">The Common Ground</a>
This podcast is produced by <a href="https://bgadgroup.com/">BG Podcast Network</a>.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Banter 01:42 Faith, Opening Prayers, and Setting the Tone 03:25 Teslas, Technology, and Full Self‑Driving Stories 06:40 AI, ChatGPT, and Everyday Use 09:08 Drones, Ukraine, and Global Conflict 11:36 China, Oil, and Geopolitical Shifts 13:57 Stoicism, Stress, and Personal Resilience 16:22 NASCAR, Revenue Battles, and Sports Politics 18:48 Gas Prices, EVs, and the Future of Energy 21:09 Midterms, Voting Systems, and Local Leadership 23:31 Sheriff Races, Political Strategy, and Community Impact 25:46 Property Taxes, Housing, and Economic Pressures 28:10 Local Government, Schools, and Policy Battles 32:52 Podcasts, Lobbyists, and the Political Landscape 35:15 National Security, Protests, and Law Enforcement 37:26 Guns, Safety, and Training 41:54 ICE, Immigration, and Public Perception 46:29 Federal Spending, Contracts, and Accountability 48:46 Settlements, Lawsuits, and Legal Realities 50:57 Development, Real Estate, and Local Challenges 53:18 Business Cycles, Restaurants, and Staying Ahead 55:39 Public vs. Private Solutions for Schools 58:06 Taxes, Endowments, and the Cost of Government 01:00:27 Universities, Tuition, and Student Life 01:02:48 Sports, Academics, and the Carolina Way 01:05:05 NIL, College Athletics, and the Future 01:07:27 Franklin Street, Campus Culture, and Change 01:09:27 Tuition, Out‑of‑State Costs, and Access 01:11:49 Business, Economy, and American Identity 01:14:12 Media, Politics, and Public Influence 01:16:38 Local Council, Pressure, and Governing 01:19:04 Epstein, Scandals, and Public Curiosity 01:21:20 Prison Systems, Justice, and Reality 01:22:48 Race, Society, and Cultural History 01:24:48 Africa, Identity, and Travel Reflections 01:27:09 Food, Culture, and the Diaspora 01:29:26 DNA, Family Stories, and Heritage 01:33:17 Race, Class, and Shared History 01:35:40 Closing Thoughts and Shout‑Outs

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>