Not Your Average Neighbor

Ann Roushar
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Not Your Average Neighbor is a podcast that celebrates inspiring individuals and the incredible work they do in our communities. Hosted by Ann Roushar, each episode shines a light on stories of resilience, connection, and good news. Join us every Wednesday as we build a neighborhood that uplifts and inspires—one story at a time!

  1. 6d ago

    The Power of Showing Up: Small Acts That Make a Big Difference with Ann Roushar

    What does it really mean to make a difference in someone's life? Sometimes, all it takes is showing up.In this heartfelt solo episode of Not Your Average Neighbor, host Ann Roushar shares inspiring stories from Cedar Rapids and across Eastern Iowa that remind us of the extraordinary impact ordinary people can have on their communities.From neighbors standing together during difficult times to a fifth grader whose quick thinking helped save a life, Ann celebrates the everyday heroes who prove that kindness, courage, and compassion don't require a fancy title, a large bank account, or even much free time.This episode is a reminder that good people doing good things are all around us. Sometimes, we just need to pay attention.In This Episode- Standing Together: UAW Local 1024- The Power of Community Voices: Save Morgan Valley- Helping a Cedar Rapids Family Rebuild- One Small Act of Kindness in Marion- A Fifth Grader's Quick Thinking Saves a Life- A $20,000 Surprise on America's Funniest Home VideosKey Takeaways- Making a difference doesn't have to involve a grand gesture.- Community grows stronger when people show up for one another.- Speaking up and participating in local decisions matters.- Small acts of kindness can have an impact we may never fully realize.- You're never too young or too old to help someone in need.- Sometimes, the most meaningful thing we can do is simply pay attention.Ann's Challenge to YouThis week, look for one opportunity to make somebody else's day better.Check in on a neighbor. Share a fundraiser. Offer a helping hand. Speak up when something matters.It doesn't have to be big. Just show up.Because good people doing good things are all around us, and sometimes, we get to be those good people.Connect With UsJoin the conversation on The Front Porch, the new official Facebook community and social media home of Not Your Average Neighbor.Share your own stories of kindness, celebrate the everyday heroes in your neighborhood, and help us shine a light on the good happening in our communities.Listen and watch: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon MusicNew episodes every Monday at 7 AM Central.#notyouraverageneighbor #thefrontporch #annroushar #thepowerofshowingup #smallactsofkindness #kindnessmatters #makeadifference #everydayheroes #communitymatters #cedarrapidsiowa #easterniowa #neighborshelpingneighbors #goodpeopledoinggoodthings #inspiringstories #iowapodcast

  2. Oct 19

    Feeling Overwhelmed? These Conversations Are Worth Hearing

    Some conversations deserve another listen. In this episode of Not Your Average Neighbor, Ann Roushar revisits four meaningful conversations from Seasons 1 through 4. Featuring Chris Taylor, Kyle Atkinson, Liz Burgin, and Stefanie Munsterman, this collection explores how we communicate, connect with others, care for ourselves, and recognize our worth beyond what we accomplish. From choosing kindness during disagreement to giving ourselves permission to rest, these conversations offer practical ideas and thoughtful reminders for navigating an often overwhelming world. In this episode, you’ll hear: Chris Taylor | Season 1: Why kindness matters when we disagree, how online interactions can bring out our worst impulses, and what it means to meet people where they are. Kyle Atkinson | Season 2: The power of clear language, simple storytelling, and showing up as yourself when building relationships and trust. Liz Burgin | Season 3: How engaging your senses can help you feel grounded, why self-care belongs in everyday life, and the importance of recognizing your limits. Stefanie Munsterman | Season 4: The pressure to be everything to everyone, the difference between functioning and feeling well, and why your worth extends beyond your productivity. A few reminders to take with you: You can be kind without agreeing. Your words matter. Self-care can be as basic as eating and sleeping. And you don’t have to earn your worth by constantly doing more. Listen to Season 5, Episode 4 on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Which conversation speaks to what you need right now? Share your takeaway in the comments, and send this episode to someone who could use the reminder. Follow Not Your Average Neighbor and The Front Porch for more conversations, guest highlights, and community stories. #notyouraverageneighbor #thefrontporch #annroushar #kindness #selfcare #selfworth #mentalhealth #authenticity #communication #humanconnection #personalgrowth #groundingtechniques #communityconversations #iowapodcast #cedarrapids

  3. Oct 12

    The Front Porch: A New Chapter for Not Your Average Neighbor

    What happens when your podcast's social media page disappears? If you're Ann Roushar, you build a whole new front porch! In this spontaneous solo episode of Not Your Average Neighbor, Ann joins us from Arvada, Colorado, with an unexpected announcement, plenty of laughs, and stories from her latest family adventure. After the podcast's social media page was permanently removed, Ann shares her perspective on what happened and why she's not letting it stop her from highlighting good people doing good things. Instead, she's introducing The Front Porch, a new community space built around meaningful conversations, connection, and celebrating our neighbors. But that's just the beginning! Ann also takes us along on a Colorado family road trip, sharing hiking adventures, impressive thrift store finds, designer clothing bargains, and plans for a festive Christmas pop-up back home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. From unexpected challenges to discovering joy in the little things, this episode is a reminder that good stories deserve to be shared. In This Episode - A Big Podcast Announcement: Ann discusses the removal of the podcast's social media page and what comes next. - Introducing The Front Porch: A new space for community conversations, storytelling, and positive connections. - A Colorado Family Adventure: Celebrating her son's birthday with a road trip from Iowa to Colorado, hiking, concerts, and exploring Arvada. - Thrifting Adventures in Denver: Ann shares her favorite secondhand discoveries, including designer clothing and incredible bargain finds. - Merry Moosmas on Moose Drive: A sneak peek at Ann's upcoming Christmas-themed garage pop-up in Cedar Rapids. - Why Good News Matters: Ann reflects on the importance of sharing uplifting stories, listening to different perspectives, and celebrating everyday neighbors. Key Takeaways 1. Conversations matter, even when people disagree. Ann believes that featuring someone on her podcast doesn't mean endorsing every belief they hold. It's about listening, understanding, and getting to know the people in our communities. 2. Unexpected setbacks can lead to new beginnings. The loss of a social media page becomes an opportunity to introduce The Front Porch and strengthen the podcast's community connections. 3. Sometimes the best adventures are unplanned. From hiking in Colorado to finding designer pieces at thrift stores, Ann reminds us to embrace unexpected experiences and enjoy life's little surprises. 4. Good news deserves to go viral. At its heart, Not Your Average Neighbor is about highlighting people who make their communities better, one conversation at a time. Connect With Not Your Average Neighbor Pull up a chair and join the conversation! Follow The Front Porch, the podcast's new community page, as Ann continues sharing stories about good people doing good things. About Ann Roushar Ann Roushar is the host of Not Your Average Neighbor, a community-focused podcast celebrating the everyday people, local businesses, and extraordinary neighbors making a difference. With her signature humor, curiosity, and passion for meaningful conversations, Ann brings listeners stories that encourage connection, kindness, and a greater appreciation for the people around us. Because every neighbor has a story worth telling. #notyouraverageneighbor #annroushar #thefrontporch #podcast #iowapodcast #cedarrapids #cedarrapidsiowa #coloradoadventures #arvadacolorado #denverthrifting #thriftshopping #thriftstorefinds #communitystories #goodnewsmatters #solopodcast

  4. Oct 5

    Behind the Scenes at the Iowa REALTORS® Convention | The People Making It Happen

    What does it take to bring hundreds of Iowa REALTORS® together under one roof—and what happens behind the scenes to make it all possible? For Season 5, Episode 2 of Not Your Average Neighbor, Ann takes the podcast on location at the Iowa REALTORS® Convention in Des Moines for conversations with four of the people helping make the association, its events, and its impact possible: Gavin Blair, Greta Haas, Ashlee Kieler, and Dotty Schimmel. From advocacy and protecting homeownership to education, communications, professional development, and the relationships formed at the convention, this episode offers a look at the people working behind the scenes for Iowa's real estate community. Gavin shares his journey into the REALTOR® association world and why he believes the industry ultimately comes down to people. He and Ann discuss the collaborative culture among Iowa REALTORS®, the value of attending the annual convention, and why building relationships makes the industry stronger. Greta takes the conversation into advocacy, discussing the work being done on behalf of Iowa REALTORS®, homeowners, and private property rights. She explains why housing isn't simply a professional issue—it's something that affects communities across Iowa—and why REALTOR® advocacy continues to be a bipartisan effort. Ashlee gives listeners a glimpse into the marketing, communications, teamwork, and creativity required to bring an event like the Iowa REALTORS® Convention to life. She also shares her path from journalism into marketing and what she loves about working alongside the association's members and staff. Finally, Dotty reflects on more than two decades with Iowa REALTORS®, her journey from receptionist to education coordinator, and why seeing members come together remains one of the highlights of the convention every year. At the center of all four conversations is one idea: real estate is about much more than transactions. It's about people, relationships, service, and community. In This Episode Ann and her guests discuss: - What happens behind the scenes at the Iowa REALTORS® Convention - Why relationships are such an important part of Iowa real estate - Gavin Blair's journey to becoming CEO of Iowa REALTORS® - The culture of collaboration among REALTORS® across Iowa - REALTOR® advocacy for homeownership and private property rights - Why housing can bring people together across political lines - The role education and professional development play in the association - How marketing and communications help create meaningful member experiences - The teamwork required to organize a convention for hundreds of REALTORS® - Why getting involved in the association can create opportunities beyond individual transactions - The friendships and sense of community that keep members coming back year after year - Ann's surprise Impact Award recognition Key Takeaway Behind every conference, advocacy effort, educational opportunity, and member experience are people who care deeply about the communities they serve. This episode is a reminder that when professionals come together to learn, advocate, build relationships, and support one another, their impact can extend far beyond their individual businesses. Listen & Watch Catch Season 5, Episode 2 of Not Your Average Neighbor on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms. Subscribe, follow, comment, and share the episode to help us continue shining a light on the people doing meaningful work in our neighborhoods. #notyouraverageneighbor #iowarealtors #iowarealestate #iowarealtor #realtorcommunity #realestatepodcast #iowapodcast #desmoines #iowahousing #homeownership #realtoradvocacy #realestateeducation #realtorlife #communitymatters #iowa

  5. Sep 28

    Faith, Family & Public Service with Iowa Rep. Lindsay James

    What does “caring for your neighbor” look like when it becomes part of public service? In this episode of Not Your Average Neighbor, Ann Roushar sits down with Iowa State Representative Lindsay James for a conversation about her journey from ministry and chaplaincy to the Iowa State House and her campaign for Congress in Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District. About the Guest Rep. Lindsay James is an ordained Presbyterian pastor, former college chaplain, working mom, and Iowa state representative from Dubuque. She has served in the Iowa House since 2019 and is currently running for Congress in Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District. Before entering the Iowa Legislature, Lindsay worked as a chaplain and served her Dubuque community in roles including PTA president and on the Dubuque Community Development Advisory Commission. She and her husband, Chris, have two children and live in Dubuque. About the Episode Lindsay shares how her background in ministry and community service shaped her decision to enter politics and how those experiences influence her approach to public policy. The conversation explores concerns she says she has heard while traveling across Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District, particularly around the cost of living, housing, childcare, healthcare, and the financial decisions facing working families. Lindsay also discusses her views on healthcare policy, rural healthcare, special interests in politics, and bipartisanship. She describes her experience working with colleagues across party lines in the Iowa Legislature and explains why she believes caring for neighbors should extend beyond political affiliation. Ann and Lindsay also discuss political division and the importance of listening to people with different perspectives, finding common ground, and remembering the community values that bring Iowans together. Key Takeaways - Lindsay’s journey from chaplain and ordained pastor to the Iowa Legislature - Why she decided to run for Congress in Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District - Cost-of-living concerns she says she hears from Iowa families - Housing, healthcare, childcare, and household affordability - Her perspective on rural healthcare and access to care - The role faith and community have played in her approach to public service - Her experience working across party lines in the Iowa Legislature - Political division and the importance of listening to different perspectives - Why “caring for your neighbor” is a recurring theme in her approach to politics - What Lindsay says she hopes to bring from the Iowa Legislature to Congress Connect with Rep. Lindsay James Learn more about Lindsay James, her campaign, policy positions, and ways to connect through her official campaign channels. About Not Your Average Neighbor Not Your Average Neighbor is about the people, stories, experiences, and conversations that make our communities anything but average. Hosted by Ann Roushar, the podcast brings you conversations with people from Iowa and beyond about their lives, careers, communities, challenges, and the experiences that shaped who they are. Subscribe and follow Not Your Average Neighbor on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music for new episodes. #notyouraverageneighbor #lindsayjames #iowapolitics #iowa #iowacongress #ia02 #iowastatehouse #cedarrapidsiowa #dubuqueiowa #iowapodcast #politicspodcast #publicservice #healthcare #costofliving #community

  6. Sep 7

    Finding Your Funny: Journey Into Stand-Up Comedy with Adam Meier

    Adam Meier is an up-and-coming Iowa comedian bringing the observations, awkward moments, and everyday absurdities of being a 26-year-old to the stage. Performing at local bars, comedy showcases, showrooms, and theaters across Iowa, Adam has been steadily finding his voice in the state's growing stand-up comedy community. His comedy is rooted in the things happening around him—from family stories and childhood memories to the strange little things he notices simply by sitting back and watching people. Although he may describe himself as quiet and observant when he isn't holding a microphone, put Adam onstage and those observations become stories, jokes, impressions, and plenty of unexpected laughs. Connect with Adam: Facebook: Adam Meier Instagram: @the_names_texas_ About the Episode In the Season 4 finale of Not Your Average Neighbor, Ann sits down with Iowa comedian Adam Meier to talk about finding humor in everyday life, getting started in stand-up, and becoming part of Iowa’s growing comedy community. Adam shares how his family—especially his mom and grandfather—helped shape his sense of humor, what it was like stepping onto the stage for the first time, and how being a quiet observer gives him plenty of material. He also opens up about the supportive community behind local comedy and his goals as he continues developing his craft. From family stories and open mic nights to finding the courage to put yourself out there, this episode closes Season 4 with plenty of laughs and a reminder that sometimes the funniest material is already happening all around you. Key Takeaways - Sometimes another person believing in you is enough to make you finally try something you've been thinking about. - Great comedy can start with simply paying attention to the people and situations happening around you. - Iowa has a growing local stand-up scene filled with comedians supporting and learning from one another. - Open mics give comedians a place to experiment, fail, rewrite, and discover what works. - Mentorship matters, especially when you're learning a creative craft. - Family stories and childhood experiences can become powerful sources of creative inspiration. - Adam's grandfather helped shape not only his sense of humor, but also the kind of person he hopes to become. - Performing in front of a live audience and putting yourself online require different kinds of courage. - Adam's next goal is to continue developing new material and build beyond the 15-minute set he's already achieved. - Sometimes the best way to survive the week is simply to find a reason to laugh. Where to Catch Adam You may also catch him on Tuesday nights at Old Neighborhood Pub in Cedar Rapids, where local comedians regularly take the mic and test out new material. And who knows? Maybe Ann will finally convince Iowa's comedians to make comedy brunch a thing. 😂 Connect with Adam Meier Facebook: Adam Meier Instagram: @the_names_texas_ Follow Adam to keep up with upcoming performances, comedy, and whatever everyday observation eventually makes its way onto the stage. Connect with Not Your Average Neighbor Keep following Not Your Average Neighbor for conversations with the people, personalities, creators, leaders, business owners, comedians, and everyday neighbors who make our communities a little more interesting. And with that, Season 4 is officially a wrap! 🎉 Thank you to every neighbor who watched, listened, shared an episode, left a comment, supported a guest, or joined us for a laugh along the way. Season 5 is coming soon. Don’t forget to like, follow, subscribe, and share so you don't miss what's coming next. #notyouraverageneighbor #notyouraverageneighborpodcast #adammeier #iowacomedy #iowacomedian #standupcomedy #cedarrapidsiowa #cedarrapidscomedy #waterlooiowa #iowapodcast #localcomedy #comedycommunity #supportlocalcomedy #podcastguest #season4finale

  7. Aug 31

    Thrift Happens: Unscientific Rules for Finding the Best Deals with Ann Roushar

    This episode’s guest is none other than Not Your Average Neighbor host Ann Roushar! Based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Ann is the voice and personality behind Not Your Average Neighbor, a podcast built around celebrating the people, stories, and perspectives that make our communities anything but average. For this special Episode 9.5, Ann trades her interviewer seat for the spotlight and shares another side of herself: her love for thrifting, colorful style, finding a great deal, and giving previously loved pieces a second life. Her love for thrifting also has a deeply personal connection. Ann shares that her mom, who passed away 10 years ago, was a self-proclaimed “thrifting diva queen.” After thrifting around the time of her mom’s birthday and sharing some of her finds online, Ann realized just how much fun she was having—and how many people wanted to know how she consistently finds the good stuff. So, naturally, it was time to make an episode about it. About the Episode Thrift happens. And apparently, there are rules. Episode 9.5 is a special solo, show-and-tell edition of Not Your Average Neighbor featuring Ann’s completely unscientific rules of thrifting. Ann walks us through the lessons she’s learned while searching thrift stores and consignment shops around Cedar Rapids, Marion, Iowa City, and beyond—from why you should never thrift when you’re in a hurry to why the size on the rack should only be treated as a suggestion. She also takes listeners along her personal Eastern Iowa Thrift Trail, shouting out some of the stores where she’s been finding her favorite pieces lately. But beyond saving money, thrifting is also about finding things that feel uniquely you. For Ann, colorful clothes and unexpected pieces have become another way to express her personality and stand out—both personally and professionally. Whether you're already digging through racks every weekend or have absolutely no idea where to start, Ann's slightly chaotic, completely unscientific guide might just convince you to give thrifting another shot. Key Takeaways - Never thrift in a hurry. Finding great pieces takes time, patience, and a willingness to actually go through the racks. - Size is a suggestion. Items get put back in the wrong sections, sizing varies between brands, and your perfect find might be hiding somewhere you would normally skip. - Don't limit yourself by section. Check both men's and women's sections because great pieces don't always end up where they're supposed to. - Don't grab the cart immediately. Is there scientific evidence behind this? Absolutely not. Does Ann swear it affects your thrifting luck? Absolutely. - Always check the label. A thrift-store price isn't automatically a great deal. Know what you're buying and what the item would normally cost. - Dress for the thrift. Wear clothes and shoes that make trying things on easy—especially at stores without dressing rooms. - Bring caffeine, water, and your AirPods. And naturally, Ann recommends listening to Not Your Average Neighbor while you search. - Don't sleep on housewares, books, toys, and puzzles. The clothing racks aren't the only place to uncover something great. - Know the difference between thrift and consignment. Understanding how the store operates can help you understand its pricing and sales. - The Goodwill Outlet bins require their own strategy. Grab a cart, wear gloves, move quickly when you spot something, and inspect everything carefully afterward. - Personal style doesn't need a huge budget. Thrifting gives you an opportunity to experiment, stand out, and find pieces you might never have picked up at a traditional retailer. Neighbor Shoutout Michelle volunteered her photography and camera talents during the 9th Annual REALTOR® Olympics in Cedar Rapids, an event that helps raise scholarship funds for students continuing their education.

  8. Aug 24

    She Finally Went Full-Time in Real Estate with Jess Spidle

    Jess Spidle is a licensed Iowa REALTOR® with Your Best Life Real Estate Partners, bringing a relatable, genuine, and client-first approach to real estate. Known as Your HOMEgirl, Jess believes that sometimes a less traditional approach is exactly what’s needed to get the job done. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling, or simply trying to figure out your next move, Jess wants to make real estate feel less intimidating, more personal, and a whole lot easier. Real estate doesn’t have to be complicated. Let your HOMEgirl get those Deeds Done Easy. 🏡✨ About the Episode What happens when you stop waiting for the “perfect time” and finally bet on yourself? In Season 4, Episode 9 of Not Your Average Neighbor, Ann sits down with Jess for an honest and fun conversation about taking chances, finding the right people, and building a career—and life—that feels right for you. After six years of balancing real estate with other jobs, Jess recently made a huge career move: becoming a full-time REALTOR®. She shares what pushed her to finally take the leap, how she prepared financially, and why going all-in on yourself still requires a plan, discipline, and a strong support system. Jess and Ann also pull back the curtain on what being a real estate agent actually looks like. Sometimes serving your clients means negotiating and writing contracts. Other times, it means rolling up your sleeves, moving furniture, solving unexpected problems, and doing whatever you reasonably can to help get everyone to the closing table. They also talk about mentorship, finding the right brokerage and team, maintaining relationships when moving into a new professional chapter, and why having people you trust can make such a difference in your career. Now, with more freedom over her schedule, Jess is also looking forward to giving back, volunteering, connecting with her community, and continuing to say yes to opportunities that help her grow. This episode is a reminder that you don’t always have to feel completely ready before taking the next step. Sometimes you prepare the best you can, surround yourself with the right people, trust the work you’ve already put in—and bet on yourself. Key Takeaways - Why Jess decided to go from part-time to full-time real estate after six years - How she financially prepared before making a major career change - Why discipline and routine matter when you become your own boss - The importance of mentorship and finding people you trust - How the right real estate team can provide support behind the scenes - Why changing brokerages doesn’t mean burning professional bridges - What REALTORS® really do behind the closing photos and SOLD signs - Why exceptional client service sometimes requires thinking outside the traditional job description - How authentic relationships can lead to referrals and long-term business - What Jess learned from traveling internationally for the first time - Why stepping outside your comfort zone can create unexpected opportunities - Creating a career that gives you more freedom for travel, community, and the things that matter to you Connect With Jess Spidle 🏡 Jess Spidle | Your HOMEgirl Your Best Life Real Estate Partners Connect With Not Your Average Neighbor 🎙️ Not Your Average Neighbor Podcast YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, Instagram, & Facebook: Not your Average Neighbor Website: We’re building this neighborhood one amazing neighbor at a time. If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe, follow, share the episode, and leave Jess some love in the comments! 💗 #notyouraverageneighbor #notyouraverageneighborpodcast #jessspidle #yourhomegirl #iowarealtor #iowarealestate #cedarrapidsiowa #cedarrapidsrealestate #realestateagent #womeninrealestate #realtorlife #careerchange #betonyourself #communitymatters #podcast

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About

Not Your Average Neighbor is a podcast that celebrates inspiring individuals and the incredible work they do in our communities. Hosted by Ann Roushar, each episode shines a light on stories of resilience, connection, and good news. Join us every Wednesday as we build a neighborhood that uplifts and inspires—one story at a time!

Information

  • Creator
    Ann Roushar
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    51
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Ann Roushar
  • Show Website
    Not Your Average Neighbor