Episode 7

For many Americans abortion is a matter of deep personal conviction. These people are not open to compromise. Both sides of the debate often find it very difficult to meet with or even respect those on the other side. But that’s exactly what a small group of six women did.

Three leaders of the pro-choice movement and three from the pro-life movement met privately over six years to talk about abortion after two murders occurred at abortion clinics in Massachusetts in 1994. None of the participants would change their minds, but the dialogues did change their lives.

In this episode, Common Ground Committee co-founders Bruce Bond and Erik Olsen share their thoughts about our recent “Let’s Find Common Ground” podcast interview with Frances Hogan and Rev. Anne Fowler. Both women took part in the talks and are featured in the new documentary, “The Abortion Talks”. They explained why the talks were often intense, passionate and profoundly difficult.

You’re invited to Common Ground Committee’s special online free screening of the film. Sign up today at commongroundcommittee.org to get access to the film between August 5th and August 12th. You can also learn about the film’s conversation guide.

Bruce Bond

Bruce Bond is Co-Founder, CEO and Board Chair of Common Ground Committee. He is a 30-year veteran of the information technology industry including an executive position at world-renowned analyst firm Gartner, launching several successful software start-ups, and roles as industry analyst, software developer, and chief information officer (CIO). Mr. Bond graduated with an AB degree in Politics from Princeton University where he was a national-class distance runner.

Erik Olsen

Erik L. Olsen is Co-Founder, CFO and Board Member of Common Ground Committee. He has more than 25 years of experience in investment management and fund management, and nine years of real estate investment experience. Mr. Olsen serves as Managing Partner of CataMetrics Management. Mr. Olsen specializes in macroeconomic analysis and policy issues. Mr. Olsen holds a B.A. degree from Principia College and an M.B.A. from the Anderson Graduate School of Management at UCLA.