Podcasts

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.

Join Bill and Odell as they sit down with Craig Scott, whose remarkable journey has taken him from black militant activism to becoming a leading voice in the conservative movement. In this candid conversation, Craig shares his firsthand experiences with the criminal justice system and offers a unique perspective on the lasting effects of the 1994 crime bill. He discusses his support for the America First movement and the importance of self-sufficiency within the black community.
The discussion dives deep into the challenges faced by black conservatives, exploring the complexities of political identity and representation in a landscape often dominated by traditional party affiliations. Bill, Odell, and Craig tackle tough questions about political endorsements, community reactions, and what it means to step outside established political lines.
With thoughtful analysis, the episode explores the historical roots of party politics, the impact of current geopolitical conflicts, and the real-world consequences of liberal policies on the black community. The conversation is a powerful call for open, honest dialogue about race, politics, and the future of American society in an increasingly polarized world.

Join hosts Odell and Dori Goebel on this episode of Finding Common Ground as they sit down with Greensboro developer Andy Zimmerman for a dynamic conversation on the future of community development in Greensboro. The discussion dives into pressing local issues, including access to grocery stores, healthcare challenges in underserved neighborhoods, and strategies for downtown revitalization. The trio also examines innovative approaches to addressing homelessness and highlights the importance of amplifying community voices in shaping solutions.
Throughout the episode, listeners will hear insights on the role of local leadership, the significance of collaborative partnerships, and how upcoming city council elections could impact Greensboro’s growth and equity. Whether you’re passionate about urban development, civic engagement, or simply want to learn more about the forces shaping your city, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing Greensboro today.

Join Bill and Odell on Finding Common Ground as they bridge divides and spark understanding through candid conversation. This episode explores urgent issues shaping society today, from economic policy and personal freedoms to the intersection of politics, business, and mentorship. Bill and Odell share real stories about parenting, family legacy, and empowering the next generation. They also discuss philanthropy, property rights, and the challenges of political engagement.
Get fresh perspectives on Greensboro’s dynamic business landscape and the importance of local involvement. With humor and honesty, Bill and Odell tackle tough topics-racial dynamics, leadership, and community safety-always searching for common ground. Tune in for thought-provoking insights and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss.

Bill, Odell, Kelly, and the Maverick (yes, all four!) are back for an exciting episode of the Common Ground Podcast. This week, they tackle the complex relationship between the United States and China, diving into the American Dream, global manufacturing, and how automation is reshaping the workforce.
The conversation covers the realities of negotiating with China, the impact of trade imbalances, and the challenges of global supply chains. They also discuss why cultural sensitivity is crucial, both in international relations and in our own political conversations.
Throughout, Bill, Odell, Kelly, and Marty “the Maverick” Kotis keep the discussion lively and insightful, highlighting the importance of finding common ground—even on the world’s biggest issues. Don’t miss this engaging look at America’s future and the global forces shaping it.

Join Bill and Odell on “Common Ground” as they dive into a captivating conversation with Greensboro mayoral candidate Robbie Perkins. Perkins shares his rich local government experience, focusing on community engagement, economic growth, and collaborative leadership. Explore his innovative solutions for pressing issues like homelessness, transportation, education, and workforce development. Discover his vision for revitalizing Gillespie Golf Course and supporting small businesses through the Nussbaum Center. Tune in for engaging storytelling and actionable insights into Greensboro’s future, all while Bill and Odell bring their unique perspectives to the table.

Bill Goebel and Odell Cleveland are back with another engaging episode of the Common Ground Podcast, joined once again by Marty “The Maverick” Kotis. This time, the trio dives into a lively and thought-provoking discussion about free speech, racial dynamics, and the challenges on college campuses. With their signature mix of humor and candidness, they explore how leadership can foster campus safety, tackle racial tensions, and navigate the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict’s impact on anti-Semitism in education.
But that’s not all—things heat up as they delve into the influence of external forces on protests, the consequences of escalating violence, and the delicate balance between law enforcement and civil liberties. The conversation takes a dynamic turn as immigration and national security come into focus, with the hosts emphasizing pragmatic solutions for community safety while keeping it fun and relatable.
Tune in for a blend of serious insights, hearty laughs, and moments that remind us all why finding common ground matters!

Join Bill and Odell on Finding Common Ground as they sit down with Marikay Abuzuaiter, who is now running for mayor of Greensboro. In this engaging conversation, they explore the vibrant tapestry of neighborhood identities and the challenges faced by youth in the community. Marikay shares her inspiring journey in public service, from her early days as a small business owner to her current role as mayor pro tem. The discussion highlights the importance of collaboration across political divides, community safety, and infrastructure development. With her deep roots in Greensboro, Marikay emphasizes the need for strong police-community relations and innovative solutions to address issues like gang violence and housing shortages. This episode is a compelling look at how leadership and community engagement can drive meaningful change in Greensboro.

Learn more about Marikay's campaign Here. 

On this episode, Bill and Odell are going all in on Elon Musk, exploring his influence on government contracts and the role of his DOGE team in addressing government waste. They also delve into race relations, personal achievements, and political commentary on Trump, including the impact of tariffs and the state of the education system. The conversation balances humor with serious topics, emphasizing the importance of finding common ground in discussions about race and culture, while touching on Elon Musk’s broader societal impact and the growth of Greensboro as a vibrant hub.

Bill and Odell are back! They kick off the episode by catching us up on what’s been happening during their break. Then, the conversation dives into critical global and domestic topics, including the proliferation of nuclear weapons and the complex dynamics between Trump and Putin. They explore the implications of territorial expansion, reflect on American values like checks and balances in democracy, and discuss challenges facing the Democratic Party.
The discussion also examines the future of U.S. foreign policy, immigration’s role in political discourse, and the importance of diversity in shaping America’s identity. This thought-provoking episode offers fresh perspectives on pressing issues that impact both the nation and the world.