Anthony "Goodie" Heygood and Mandie Kijinski recently sat down to discuss a wide range of political and social issues, despite their differing political views.

Their conversation exemplified how two people from opposite sides of the political spectrum can discuss complex topics openly, respectfully, and with a focus on finding common ground.

They started by underscoring the importance of relying on factual sources, emphasizing the need to consult primary documents and legislation directly rather than relying on potentially biased interpretations.

Goodie and Mandie practiced civil discourse by engaging each other’s perspectives with empathy, focusing more on understanding than persuading, which allowed them to reduce polarization and find mutual respect between each other.

They highlighted the power of focusing on shared values—such as safety, health, and economic stability—that transcend party lines. On the economic front, both advocated for state-led economic initiatives, agreeing that state control could better address local needs, stimulate job creation, and tailor educational programs to match regional industries.

Their discussion also explored how to balance freedom with responsibility, recognizing that upholding individual choice is essential but must coexist with communal harmony. Both stressed the importance of staying informed about economic policies, understanding that economic fears are real and affect everyone’s day-to-day life. On security and individual rights, they agreed that policies should protect freedoms while maintaining public safety.

They shared a commitment to government efficiency, believing that transparent, effective spending is crucial for public trust. Healthy living was another key point, with both supporting regulated food and health standards to benefit the whole community. They acknowledged the childcare crisis, noting that affordable, quality childcare is essential for working parents, especially single mothers, who contribute to the economy and pay taxes.

Finally, Goodie and Mandie recognized that facts alone can’t always address the fears people hold. True understanding often comes through open, respectful conversations that allow people to express their experiences and concerns. By engaging in this way, they demonstrated that it is possible to have meaningful, bipartisan conversations about contentious issues, bridging divides through empathy and commonality.

In this episode, Mandie K interviews Gloria Blevins, the Executive Director of the Black Child Development Institute of Ohio (BCDI/BCI).

They discuss the organization's mission to advocate for Black and Brown children, the systemic challenges these communities face, and the importance of education and awareness in addressing these issues.

Gloria shares insights on the political landscape affecting child welfare, the misconceptions surrounding poverty and race, and concrete actions individuals can take to support their communities. The conversation emphasizes the need for collective action and understanding to create equitable opportunities for all children.

Drawing on his personal experience growing up in Lima, Ohio, home to a large oil refinery, and his extensive professional career in Washington, D.C., where he worked on national energy policy in Congress, Joe shares insights into the environmental, health, and economic impacts of fossil fuel reliance.

Mandie and Joe explore the urgent need to transition to clean energy to secure long-term economic stability for communities that currently depend on fossil fuels. They discuss the importance of bipartisan action, equitable access to information on climate change, and how local governments can lead the way in driving this transition.

This episode highlights the real-world effects of climate change, from extreme weather to economic and utility disruptions, and emphasizes the need for practical solutions that support sustainable economic growth. Whether you're in Ohio or beyond, this conversation offers valuable insights into building a future where clean energy and economic security go hand in hand.