Good Neighbor Podcast: Auburn and Opelika

Hosted by Susannah Hodges at Village Centre Press

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Episodes

163

Latest episode

Oct 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

With her genuinely good heart and a wealth of experience behind her, Susannah works to connect local business and non-profit leaders to their neighbors. In a community like ours in which so many have invested their lives, there are fantastic stories all around us that motivate and inspire, often right next door. She hopes to share some of those here, on the Good Neighbor Podcast. Book an interview today at GNPAuburn.com

Listen to episodes

60 recent

October 23, 202612 min

Ep.#164: Meghan & Harrison Barley, EMJAY Real Estate Group

We sit down with Meghan and Harrison Barley of EMJAY Real Estate Group to hear how they built a husband and wife real estate team and why honest guidance matters in the homebuying process. We also dig into the “I can’t buy a house” mindset, what first-time buyers often misunderstand, and how strong standards and trusted partners keep deals on track. • Meghan’s path from property management to real estate entrepreneurship • Harrison’s background in restaurant management and insurance exposure to transactions • How a husband and wife real estate team splits roles and serves clients • Why COVID and health needs can reshape career choices • Common misconceptions that keep first-time homebuyers renting • The value of frank conversations during one of life’s biggest purchases • Life outside work, from hiking and camping to design and house flipping • Building a reliable network of lenders, vendors, and contractors through experience https://emjayrealestategroup.com

October 23, 20269 min

Ep.#163: Brad Caldwell, Caldwell's Roofing

We sit down with Brad Caldwell of Caldwell’s Roofing to talk about what it really takes to build roofs that last, from shingle replacements to complex metal, slate, and flat roof systems. Brad shares why training, material choices, and obsessive attention to detail are the difference between constant leaks and real peace of mind. • Caldwell’s Roofing services across shingles, standing seam metal, flat roofs, copper, and slate • Copper accents and custom copper work that elevate a home’s design • Why Brad stays hands-on to protect safety and quality • Specialized training and manufacturer education that expand what a local roofer can deliver • Misconceptions about TPO vs PVC for flat roofing and what prevents seam leaks • The real cost story behind metal roofs, lifespan, and reflectivity • Entrepreneurship challenges from early word-of-mouth growth to COVID disruptions • Practical marketing moves like websites, signs, chambers, and sponsorships • Why skylights and flat roofs do not leak when installed correctly https://caldwells-roofing.com/

October 23, 202615 min

Ep.#162: Tipi Miller, The United Way of Lee County

We sit down with Tipi Miller of United Way of Lee County and get clear on how they help families in crisis through funding, direct support, and resource connections. We also dig into where donations go, what’s happening during campaign season, and easy ways to volunteer locally. • United Way’s mission as a short-term bridge for families in crisis • Three ways help happens: funding local organizations, direct services, connecting people to resources • Audit results and why 85% going to community support matters • Why giving to United Way strengthens multiple nonprofits at once • The reality of nonprofit leadership and learning to ask for help • Coat drive timeline, how donations work, and why buyer’s choice matters • Campaign season goals and the role of year-end giving • How to volunteer and ongoing opportunities matched to your passions https://www.unitedwayofleecounty.com/

October 16, 202612 min

Ep.#161: Steffani Bryant, Autosport Body Works

We talk with Steffani Bryant from Autosport Body Works about what “no shortcuts” looks like in real-world collision repair and why safety has to come before convenience. We share how to navigate the insurance claim process with more confidence, using your policy and the manufacturer’s repair procedures as your guide. • Autosport Body Works’ history from 1979 restorations to full collision repair after a hailstorm • “No shortcuts” as a quality and safety standard using OEM parts and manufacturer repair procedures • Common misconceptions about insurance claims and the fact that vehicle owners have a choice • Reading your insurance policy to understand your contract and push back when needed • Why modern vehicles are complex systems with safety features that work together • Personal lessons on building confidence through knowledge and serving others 334-745-2166 www.betterfasterrepairs.com

October 2, 202623 min

Ep.#160: Jere Bowden, LLC, Kitchen and Bath Designer

We talk with Kitchen and Bath designer Jere Bowden about how thoughtful planning, strong trade partners, and clear communication turn inspiration into a home that feels cohesive. Jere also shares the personal resilience that shaped her business and why timing matters if you want a remodel you still love after the holidays. • pivoting from dietetics to kitchen and bath design through a love of how people use kitchens • learning old-school craftsmanship in a cabinet shop and why quality installation still matters • designing kitchens and baths as the most complex rooms with plumbing, lighting, HVAC, and tight spaces • building better outcomes through teamwork with builders, electricians, plumbers, and architects • correcting internet-driven misconceptions by scaling ideas to ceiling height, layout, and structure • using a concierge design model that meets clients where they are and stays detail-focused • planning early around October, holidays, weddings, and babies so decisions are not rushed • overcoming a house fire while managing client work and leaning on community support www.jerebowden.com

October 2, 202615 min

Ep.#159: Ford Dyke, PH.D., USA Wheelchair Handball Program

We sit down with USA Wheelchair Handball Head Coach Ford Dyke to hear how a program built in the Auburn Opelika area grows into a gold medal winning team on the world stage. We break down what wheelchair handball actually looks like, why people underestimate para-sports, and what it takes to get ready for possible Paralympic inclusion. • the Auburn Opelika roots of USA Wheelchair Handball and the early push for staff, sponsors, and partners • the gold medal win in France and how medals drive visibility and momentum • the timeline for Paralympic inclusion and why Brisbane 2032 is closer than it sounds • common misconceptions about wheelchair sports and why performance chairs change everything • how recruitment works by pulling top multi sport athletes from other wheelchair sports • a clear explanation of team handball and wheelchair handball rules, pace, and gameplay • the 24 Fund and the practical goal of lowering barriers like travel and training access • obstacles like early silence, plus the payoff of watching athletes develop into medal winners • upcoming training camps, community support, and the next chance to defend gold in Lyon info@the24fund.org

September 25, 20268 min

Ep.# 158: Sam Sorrell, Shepard Construction

We sit down with Sam Sorrell of Shepard Construction to talk about what really drives a great remodel, from planning and problem-solving to clear communication. Sam shares how he built his construction business in Opelika around relationships, quality work, and a reputation he is proud to stand behind. • Shepard Construction’s focus on home construction, remodeling, and renovations in Opelika • Sam’s background in custom homes and the leap into starting his own company in 2025 • The mental load of small business ownership and why the freedom still makes it worth it • Why remodeling is more than physical labor, including planning, coordination, and creativity • How “lowest price” can miss the real value of good workmanship and communication • Common homeowner projects, from leaks that spark upgrades to full personalization updates • What Sam wants clients to know about care, accountability, and being easy to reach with questions www.builtbyshepard.com

September 25, 20265 min

Ep.#157: Rachel Mowery, Firefly Pages

We talk with Rachel Mowery of Firefly Pages about opening a bookstore in Dadeville, Alabama when the nearest shop is miles away in every direction. We share what it takes to jump into entrepreneurship fast, serve readers well, and create a safe, cozy space that feels like home. • Why Firefly Pages opens in Dadeville and what the shop carries • The quick-start origin story sparked by a family challenge • Where the store is located and how locals can stop by • The biggest misconception about bookstores and why no shop can stock everything • How special orders work and what fast ordering looks like • What Rachel does outside the store as a band booster president • The real obstacles of working for someone else and choosing flexibility for family life • The vision for a welcoming atmosphere with seating and community comfort Facebook: @fireflypages Instagram: @ fire.flypages 220 N Broadnax St. Dadeville, AL

September 25, 202615 min

Ep.#155: Robert Harris, PT, DPT with Therapy South

We sit down with Robert Harris, clinic director and partner at Therapy South in Auburn, to talk about what PT-owned outpatient physical therapy looks like when it stays personal and hands-on. Robert shares how his family’s move back to Auburn turned into three local clinics and a clear mission: help people move better, feel better, and get back to what they love. • Therapy South as a 100% physical therapist owned company and why that shapes care • The story behind opening the first Auburn-area clinic and growing to Auburn, North Auburn, and Opelika • One-on-one individualized physical therapy built around patient goals and real-life function • The biggest misconception about PT and what patients should expect instead • Family life, youth sports, and staying active outside the clinic • Early setbacks, career doubts, and the risk of launching in a new town • Direct access physical therapy in Alabama and how it can reduce waiting www.therapysouth.com

September 25, 202613 min

Ep.#156: Annika Lee, Still Point Clay Atelier

We sit down with Annika Lee of Still Point Clay Atelier in Auburn to talk about wheel throwing pottery, the reality behind learning clay, and why the process matters more than a perfect finished piece. Annika shares how a bucket list hobby became a studio built on patience, mentorship, and real community. • what Still Point Clay Atelier is and where to find the studio near Auburn Mall • Annika’s journey from early dabbling to teaching and opening a boutique pottery business • the two biggest misconceptions about pottery including turnaround time and unrealistic first projects • why clay builds patience and helps check perfectionism • what Annika does for fun outside the studio including DIY and natural building • what’s next with expansion, early childhood classes, team events, and creative collaborations www.stillpointauburn.com