Zandra Davis, founding president of the Greater Auburn Opelika Realtist Association, discusses her mission to increase Black homeownership, close the racial wealth gap, and create opportunities for real estate professionals to thrive. She shares her personal journey from Auburn native to real estate advocate, including overcoming a life-threatening cancer diagnosis that transformed her outlook on life and business.

• GAORA is part of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), with over 110 boards nationwide
• Realtists go beyond closing deals to educate clients about financial literacy, wills, trusts, and estate planning
• The Association welcomes all real estate professionals who believe in equity and fair housing
• Zandra operates Phoenix Real Estate Firm LLC providing "full service real estate with purpose"
• Auburn-Opelika community has shown remarkable resilience even during market downturns
• Zandra balances her real estate work with crisis therapy, singing, dancing, and travel
• Despite being given hours to live during her cancer battle 15 years ago, she survived to continue her mission

Connect with GAORA through email at [email protected] or on Instagram at NAREB_GAORA.

The evolution of garage doors from their invention after automobiles to today's smart technology reflects changing homeowner needs and technological innovation. Brad Hickman from River City Door Company shares historical insights and predictions for future advancements in garage door technology.

• C.G. Johnson invented the upward-acting garage door to replace swing-out carriage doors, later developing the electric garage door operator
• Future innovations may include greater connectivity with smart devices, geofencing technology, and voice activation features
• Modern garages serve multiple purposes beyond car storage including workout rooms, entertainment spaces, and holiday gathering areas
• Today's homeowners prioritize aesthetics, durability, reliability and security features in their garage doors
• Smart garage openers like Aladdin Connect allow remote operation, automatic closing timers, and security notifications through smartphone apps
• River City Door Company can be contacted at 334-521-0630 or visited at 300 North Dean Road, Suite 4, or online at rivercitydoors.com

To nominate your favorite local businesses to be featured on the Good Neighbor Podcast, visit gnpauburn.com or call 334-429-7404.

Moises Gonzalez shares how he created FarmHub, an online farmers market delivering fresh, locally-sourced products from over 20 farms directly to Auburn and Opelika residents within 24 hours of harvest.

• Started as a mathematics student at Auburn University researching food access
• Currently offers over 100 products including eggs, milk, meat, vegetables, honey, flowers, and more
• Weekly delivery system where orders are placed by Thursday noon and delivered Saturday
• Provides transparency about farming practices and direct farmer-to-consumer relationships
• Challenging misconceptions that local food is necessarily expensive or always certified organic
• Building infrastructure to fix the "broken" local food system by connecting farmers with consumers
• Recently launched CSA subscription program for regular grocery essentials

Visit farmhub.online or text 786-824-1479 to learn more about FarmHub's services and delivery options.

Todd Durham brings nearly 40 years of construction experience to his locally owned Five Star Painting franchise in Auburn and Opelika. His technical expertise and dedication to proper surface preparation allow him to offer a two-year warranty on all painting projects.

• Started in construction at age 16, gaining experience across multiple trades before focusing on painting
• Emphasizes that proper surface preparation is critical for quality results, not just paint application
• Assigns a dedicated project manager to each client to ensure seamless communication throughout the project
• Provides 24/7 scheduling options for free estimates through their website or by phone
• Overcame significant career challenges during the 2008 economic downturn, including relocating to Colorado and temporarily separating from his family
• Returned to Auburn after 11 years away to establish his business and reconnect with the community
• Auburn University alum who enjoys Auburn sports and occasional golf

To connect with Todd, visit five-starpainting.com/auburn-opelika, find them on Facebook at Five Star Painting Auburn-Opelika, or on Instagram at 5 Star Painting Auburn_Opelika.

What if you could transform personal setbacks into the ultimate catalyst for success? On this episode of the Good Neighbor Podcast, we're joined by the talented Whitney Lee, the visionary behind Dear Southern Lady. Whitney's journey from the uncertainty of the 2009 economic downturn to creating a thriving jewelry business is nothing short of inspiring. She turned her passion for antique treasures into a unique venture, offering everything from exquisite estate pieces to bespoke designs. Whitney takes us behind the scenes, shedding light on the not-so-glamorous realities of the jewelry world and the boundless creativity that fuels it.

Unlock the secret to boosting your home's curb appeal with the often-overlooked power of a garage door upgrade. Join me, Susanna Hodges, as I sit down with Brad Hickman, the insightful owner of River City Door Company, to explore how a simple change to your garage door can dramatically enhance your home's exterior and potentially increase its market value. Brad shares his expert advice on choosing the perfect style and material to complement your home's architecture, making this episode a must-listen for homeowners looking to make impactful yet simple improvements.

Brad takes us into the heart of the decision-making process, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how a design consultant can help you select the ideal garage door. From exploring current trends to discussing the significance of a well-maintained exterior, Brad's insights reveal how this upgrade can attract potential buyers and reflect the care you've invested in your property. Whether you're considering a replacement, in the market to sell, or simply curious about enhancing your home's facade, this episode promises valuable tips and insider knowledge that'll make you see garage doors in a whole new light.

Curious about how a new seminary is reshaping the landscape of theological education? Meet Hoffman Ryan from Christ, our Redeemer Seminary in Auburn, as he unpacks the inspiring journey of this innovative institution. Founded through a unique partnership between local churches in Opelika and Auburn, this seminary is committed to training leaders for global missions. Hoffman shares how his transformative experiences with Campus Crusade for Christ in China ignited his passion for leadership development in today's intricate and often divided world. Listen to Hoffman's insights on the power of in-person education and the profound impact of community in a post-COVID era.

Hoffman also challenges common misconceptions about seminary education, emphasizing its relevance beyond traditional pastoral roles. Discover how this seminary is opening doors for women both as students and educators and why character formation is as crucial as academic rigor. Tune in for a conversation that explores faith, unity, and the rich potential within the Auburn community, offering valuable lessons for anyone interested in the transformative power of theological education.

Join us as Village Centre Press celebrates 6 years and the powerful connections forged within our community. Vince and I reflect on the privilege of capturing the stories of our neighbors, enhancing our own sense of belonging in the process. We dive into how these relationships have enriched our lives and fueled our passion for storytelling. Whether you’re contemplating your own venture or simply enjoy a heartening tale of community spirit, this episode offers inspiration and encouragement. Let us take you on a journey that underscores the beauty of creativity, community, and enduring connections.

Colonel Corey Ramsby, the 12th president of Southern Preparatory Academy, unpacked the fascinating transformation of this Alabama-based institution. With roots as the Southern Industrial Institute founded in 1898, the academy embraced a military education model in the 1960s and has since thrived as a premier all-male boarding school. Colonel Ramsby, drawing from a rich 30-year military career that spanned the Air Force and Space Force, shares his inspiring journey from service to shaping young minds, highlighting the academy's dedication to academic and technical excellence.

Misconceptions about military education often paint a misleading picture, and Colonel Ramsby is here to set the record straight. Hollywood's dramatic portrayals are a far cry from the reality at Southern Prep, where structure, discipline, and clear communication are the pillars for nurturing respect, responsibility, and leadership. Far from boot camp clichés, the academy offers a nurturing environment enriched with varied activities, from music and culinary clubs to a wide range of sports, ensuring students enjoy a holistic education tailored to their ambitions.

For families intrigued by what Southern Prep offers, Colonel Ramsby highlights the wealth of resources available on their comprehensive website, southernprepacademy.org. The admissions team stands ready to guide prospective students and their families through every step, ensuring a personal touch. It's a privilege to bring you this conversation on the Good Neighbor Podcast, Auburn, as we explore Southern Prep's commitment to crafting future leaders well-prepared to tackle life's challenges.

Unlock the secrets to keeping your garage door secure and well-maintained with expert advice from Brad Hickman, owner of River City Door Company. Many homeowners often overlook the importance of regular garage door maintenance, leading to safety hazards like broken springs and unbalanced doors. Brad shares invaluable tips on conducting annual servicing and visual inspections to prevent costly repairs and ensure your door's safety. You'll also gain insights into the latest technological advancements, such as safety sensors and rolling code technology, that are designed to enhance both security and functionality.

As we explore this essential topic, you'll learn practical tips for maintaining your garage door, including lubricating moving parts and identifying warning signs of potential issues. We also highlight when it's time to consider replacing outdated garage door systems that lack modern safety features. Plus, find out how to connect with River City Door Company for all your garage door needs, whether online or by phone. Don't miss this opportunity to support local businesses and nominate your favorites for future features on the Good Neighbor Podcast. With Brad's expert insights, you’ll be better equipped to maintain a safe and efficient garage door system.