HBA After Hours

On this episode of HBA After Hours, host Will Ruder andguest host Jordan Webster sit down with Dr. Stanley Longhofer to discuss why today’s housing market feels stuck, tracing the supply crunch from the 2008 financial crisis through rising construction costs and underbuilding, exploring the role of mid-priced and “missing middle” homes, zoning challenges and how new development supports existing neighborhoods, while highlighting the Let Builders Build KC campaign and practical ways to expand housing for communities today and in the future.

On this episode of HBA After Hours, Patrick Tuohey joinshost Will Ruder and co-host Keith Sauro to discuss one of today’s most urgent challenges: the housing shortage and why building enough homes is so difficult. Drawing on his work with the Show‑Me Institute and Better Cities Project, Patrick explains how policies, zoning and local opposition have limited supply and driven up prices, and shares what cities, builders and voters can do to create a clearer path to new housing.

On this episode of HBA After Hours, Patrick Feeney joinshost Will Ruder and co-host Keith Sauro for a candid conversation about how political fundraising and campaigns really work. A veteran political fundraiser with The Dublin Group, Patrick brings decades of experience from JeffersonCity, Topeka and Washington, DC, sharing insights on everything from his accidental start in a Brookside bar to the realities of modern campaign strategy. The discussion explores how candidates raise money, what donors areactually supporting, the evolving ways campaigns reach voters and why business owners are involved in politics whether they realize it or not, all underscored by a simple takeaway participation matters when it comes to shaping thepolicies that impact housing, taxes, and local communities.

On this week’s episode of HBA After Hours, host Will Ruder and co-host Keith Sauro sit down with Terrell “TJ” Jolley, a Kansas City real estate developer, for an honest conversation about the challenges and opportunities shaping the local housing market. TJ shares his journey from property management to investment and development, while shedding light on barriers such as permitting delays,regulatory hurdles, and misalignment between housing demand and policy priorities. With a focus on community development, affordability, and theconnection between stable housing and public safety, TJ brings a candid and eye-opening perspective. Whether you're involved in development, real estate, or simply curious about the future of housing in Kansas City, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

On this week’s episode of HBA After Hours, host WillRuder and co-host Keith Sauro sit down with Kipp Cooper, CEO of the Kansas Association of Realtors, for a deep dive into Kansas City’s housing landscape. They cover everything from current market trends and inventory challenges to homeownership opportunities and regional economic growth. Cooper brings valuable insight into the latest real estate data and reinforces the importance of partnering with a trusted realtor. Whether you work in the industry or justwant a glimpse behind the scenes, this episode is worth a listen.

On this episode of HBA After Hours, Kevin Klinkenbergjoins host Will Ruder and co-host Keith Sauro for a candid conversation about the complexities of housing development in Kansas City. Kevin is an architect, developer, community leader and host of The Messy City Podcast, and he brings a thoughtful perspective on what it really takes to build more livable, connected communities. From shifting attitudes toward development to practical strategies for revitalizing the urban core, this episode explores how cities like ours can grow with intention. Whether you live in Kansas City or simplycare about strong, sustainable neighborhoods, this is one you will want to hear.

In the season 3 premiere of HBA After Hours, hostWill Ruder and co-host Keith Sauro sit down with Academy Bank mortgage loan officer Cole Griggs to talk all things homebuying. As a recent first-time homebuyer himself, Cole walks us through his own experience purchasing andrenovating a home. He breaks down the current real estate market, smart mortgage strategies, and the key things to know before you buy (especially if it’s your first time). If you’ve been thinking about taking the leap into homeownership, this episode is a must-listen!

In the season 2 finale of HBA After Hours, Skylor Alexander of Stag Homes joins Will and Keith for a deep dive into the world of remodeling. From his unexpected background in microbiology to making a name for himself Kansas City’s renovation scene, Skylor shares expert tips on choosing the right contractor, the latest trends in home renovation, and smart advice for homeowners. The conversation also touches on workforce development as Skylor looks ahead to the future of the industry. Don’t miss this insightful wrap-up to the season!

On this episode of HBA After Hours, Kansas City homebuilding legend Bruce Rieke joins Will Ruder and co-host Keith Sauro. Rieke built his first house at the age of 22 with his wife and never stopped. Learn the difference in cost plus vs fixed price when it comes to building a house and which one makes the most sense with a custom home vs volume homebuilding. This episode gives a good look into why and how Rieke custom homes has been able to set themselves apart in the Kansas City market.

This week on HBA After Hours, KCHBA board member Kevin Stallings joins host Will and guest co-host Kari English for a deep dive into energy efficiency. Kevin shares practical, cost-saving tips for current homeowners looking to make their homes more energy efficient, covering everything from simple upgrades to smart strategies that can lower utility bills and put money back in your pocket. Whether you're making small changes or planning big improvements, this episode is packed with advice to help you save energy and cash.

In this episode of HBA After Hours, hosts Will and KeithSauro sit down with Austin Roeser, founder of Roeser Homes, to explore what really goes on inside the mind of a seasoned home builder. With over 21 years of experience in the Kansas City homebuilding scene, Austin shares valuable insights, hard-earned lessons, and expert advice for anyone thinking about building their dream home. From planning and budgeting to navigating the building process, this conversation is packed with practical tips and real-world wisdom. Whether you're a future homeowner or just curious about the industry, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

In this episode of HBA After Hours, Shawn Woods, president of Ashlar Homes, joins host Will Ruder and guest co-host Jordynn Webster to tackle the topic of the “missing middle” in housing. Shawn shares how he’s been able to develop affordable communities, and why civic engagement—like showing up to city council meetings—matters more than ever. The conversation also dives into key issues like tap fees, NIMBYism, and workforce development. Whether you're in the building industry or passionate about housing solutions, this episode offers practical insights and fresh perspective.

On this week’s episode of HBA After Hours, Marty Albertsonof Stewart Title joins Will and Keith to speak on an ever-evolving issue; fraud. In this eye-opening episode, learn about the sophisticated scams targeting home buyers and sellers, understand how cybercriminals operate, and discover critical strategies to protect your most significant financial investment. Marty shares insider insights on wire fraud, email scams, and practical tips to safeguard your real estate transaction. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned property investor, this episode is a must-listen to ensure you don't become a victim of increasingly clever fraudsters.

In the first episode of Season 2 of HBA After Hours, hosts Will Ruder and Keith Sauro sit down with David Elliott of Construction & Planning Services, Inc. based in Kansas City. With his distinct Northeastern accent, David shares his story—from starting out in framing to growing a successful business. He discusses the evolution of the industry, the challenges of workforce development, and his dedication to helping the next generation succeed. Whether you're in homebuilding, construction, or any field that requires hard work and growth, this conversation offers valuable insights and lessons.

On this episode, two knowledgeable guests join Will to talk about the importance of Career Centers for KC area students. Micheal Fasone co-hosts Brian Noller and Jeff Green of the Northland Career Center: one of the top career centers in the country. They answer common questions for those not familiar with the significance of the programs that these schools offer. They also explain how they are changing perspectives on skilled trades. And why these programs work: Creating a simulated work places. Prepare for a new outlook on the skilled trades and the impact they have on not only the KC area students but also the need for these jobs.

On this episode, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity KC, Lindsey Hicks joins Will and Jen to address misconceptions of affordable housing. Lindsey defines a few key terms in affordable house like NIMBYs and land trusts: what are they? The discussion leads also covers the mistaken belief that Habitat just gives houses away and how they do so much more than that. Finally, they give ways to educate and how to get involved and help with their mission in the Kansas City area. Prepare for an education and heartwarming episode this week on HBA After Hours!

In this episode, Will and Jen sit down with Dennis Shriver, the 2024 HBA President and founder of Hearthside Homes, to tackle some of the toughest questions facing today’s homebuyers and builders. Why are homes so expensive? Dennis offers his expert insights into the current housing market and discusses the vital importance of client-builder relationships. He also provides a list of key questions every prospective homeowner should ask when choosing a builder, along with what expectations to set throughout the home building journey. Tune in for answers and expert advice on this week’s HBA After Hours!

In this episode, Brenner Holland, Senior Vice President of Hunt Midwest, joins Will and Jen to explore what it takes to create sustainable, thriving housing communities. Brenner breaks down the land development process, from selecting the right plot and understanding its topography to designing developments that meet the needs of future homeowners. He also addresses common misconceptions about land development and shares insights into the evolving landscape of new housing projects. Don’t miss this in-depth conversation on this week’s HBA After Hours!

In this debut episode of HBA After Hours, get to know your hosts, Will Ruder and Jennifer Bertrand! They share their vision for the podcast, focusing on the importance of housing education and the goals they have for each episode. Keeping things lighthearted, Will and Jen answer fun and insightful questions that reveal more about their backgrounds, passions, and what drives them in the housing industry. Tune in and kick off this exciting season of HBA After Hours with a behind-the-scenes look at your hosts!