This week on Not Your Average Neighbor, host Ann Roushar is joined by a very special guest: her cousin and longtime partner-in-fun, Shannon Rathjen. In this hilarious and heartwarming episode, Ann and Shannon revisit their childhood memories, growing up between Cedar Rapids and Williamsburg, and the bond that has lasted through decades, distance, and family chaos.
From Midwest card games and karaoke nights to weddings, weird nicknames, and tenderloin cravings, this episode is packed with laughter, nostalgic stories, and the unique energy only cousins can bring. Shannon now lives in Savannah, Georgia, where she manages a trampoline park, enjoys life by the beach, and still holds onto her Iowa roots (and her obsession with Taco John’s).
Key Takeaways:
The joy of cousin friendships that feel more like sibling bonds
Hilarious family stories, including mischief at family gatherings and core memories at Osco Drug
The cultural quirks and comforts of growing up in Iowa
How Shannon pivoted from retail management into family fun at Sky Zone in Savannah
Ghost tours, snow days in the South, and boogie boards as sleds
Favorite Thing Spotlight:Shannon reflects on her daughter Avi’s love of the water and the magic of living near Tybee Island—a complete contrast to her snowy Midwest upbringing.
Neighbor Shoutout:A shoutout to all the quirky cousins, childhood besties, and family members who shaped us.
Quotes from the Episode:
“We probably took a bath together at some point and ended up in each other's weddings.”
“They don’t have pork tenderloins down here… and I need one every time I visit.”
“We invented 'Oh my lanta' before Full House ever did. Facts.”
If this episode made you laugh or think of your favorite cousin, send it their way! Don’t forget to follow, like, and share. New episodes drop every Wednesday!
