Conversations with Drew Roeder-Bouge

Today we’d like to introduce you to Drew Roeder-Bouge.

Hi Drew, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My career in real estate wasn’t something I ever planned for. For nearly a decade, I worked in the nonprofit healthcare world, leading community-based health education programs. What began as a grant-funded initiative grew into a thriving career that I truly believed was my purpose. I poured my heart into the work—teaching in more than 28 schools across Buchanan and Andrew counties, implementing nine community gardens, and leading cooking classes that helped families use fresh produce grown in their own school gardens. It was deeply fulfilling, and I felt like I had found where I truly belonged.

Then, COVID hit.

Almost overnight, everything came to a halt. My entire department was rooted in community and school-based programming, and with closures and lockdowns, my role was eliminated. It was heartbreaking to see something I had dedicated so much time and passion to disappear with the stroke of a pen.

In May of 2020, sitting around the firepit with my husband, I remember sharing how lost I felt. I was at a major crossroads. I had already committed to starting my 200-hour yoga teacher training that summer—something I was drawn to after teaching fitness classes for over 20 years and falling in love with hot yoga shortly after moving to Kansas City in 2019. But I wasn’t sure that yoga alone could offer the financial independence or structure of a full-time career.

I spent weeks job hunting, hoping to find something that would reignite the sense of purpose I had in my former role, but nothing seemed to fit. That’s when my husband suggested I consider real estate. He was already working in the industry and encouraged me to get my license and help him out while I figured out my next steps.

I still remember the exact moment—it was a Friday evening, mid-dinner. Although we have a strict “no phones at the table” policy, I couldn’t help myself. I searched for real estate licensing courses, knowing full well I was about to begin my intensive yoga teacher training. To my surprise, there was a class starting that Monday. Before we even finished eating, I had submitted my application and paid my deposit.

And just like that, within 48 hours, I was on a completely new path.

That’s how my journey into real estate began—unexpected, a little chaotic, but guided by a willingness to keep growing and evolving, no matter what life throws my way.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—but I think that’s true for most meaningful journeys. Transitioning from a career in nonprofit healthcare to real estate was a complete shift in mindset, structure, and environment. In my previous role, I was driven by mission, grants, and community impact. Suddenly, I was stepping into a world where everything depended on building a business from the ground up—learning contracts, negotiating deals, and navigating a highly competitive industry.

One of the first major challenges was the licensing process itself. Studying for the real estate exam completely consumed me for almost two weeks. I knew from my husband’s experience how tough the test could be, and I wanted to give it everything I had. That’s just who I am—when I commit to something, I show up fully and strive to be the very best.

But passing the test is only the beginning. Getting started in real estate is a slow, often unpredictable climb. There’s no guaranteed paycheck. You go to work every day essentially unemployed, investing time, money, and energy with no promise of a return—until the deal closes. Every expense—from marketing to mileage—is out of your own pocket. That shift from a steady, salaried income to both of us being self-employed forced us to reexamine everything: our budget, our long-term financial strategy, and even our risk tolerance. It was a big leap of faith.

Beyond the financial adjustments, there’s also the emotional weight that comes with the job. In real estate, you’re not just helping someone buy or sell a house—you’re guiding them through one of the most significant and emotional decisions of their life. When a client loses out on a home in a bidding war, or things don’t go as planned, it can be hard not to internalize that disappointment. I care deeply about the people I work with, and when you’re passionate about what you do, their highs and lows become yours too.

It’s been a journey of resilience, growth, and reinvention—but through all the struggles, I’ve found a career that challenges and fulfills me in ways I never expected.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a licensed REALTOR® and Associate Broker serving the Kansas City metro area, and I specialize in helping buyers, sellers, and investors navigate the real estate process with clarity and confidence. Whether someone is relocating, purchasing their first home, or building a portfolio, I’m there to guide them every step of the way. While I work closely with my husband, Andrew, as co-founders of the Roeder-Bouge Home Team, I bring my own unique energy and perspective to the table.

What sets me apart is my background in nonprofit healthcare and education. For nearly a decade, I worked directly in schools and communities, leading initiatives focused on health and wellness. That experience shaped the way I approach real estate—through service, advocacy, and genuine connection. My goal has never been to just sell houses; it’s to support people in one of the most important decisions of their lives.

I pride myself on being highly communicative, approachable, and intentional with every client I work with. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions—each client deserves a tailored experience, and I’m here to make sure they feel informed, empowered, and celebrated throughout the entire process.

Some of the accomplishments I’m most proud of include earning my broker’s license just two years into the industry, and being elected to serve as a State Director for the Missouri REALTORS® Association—now in my fourth year. I also serve on the board of directors for our local MLS chapter, where I help shape the tools and policies that support real estate professionals in our region. These leadership roles allow me to stay deeply involved in the evolution of our industry, advocate for other agents, and continually grow as both a professional and a leader.

In 2024, I finished in the top 5% agents in Kansas City metro is something I’m incredibly proud of, especially considering how this journey started—with no roadmap, in the middle of a pandemic. I built this business on passion, hustle, and heart, and I’m grateful every day that I get to do work that truly aligns with who I am.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Growing up gay in rural America, I often felt out of place. Moving to Kansas City was a breath of fresh air. For the first time, I felt like I could truly exhale and just be myself. Kansas City has given me the space to live openly and authentically—and that’s something I’ll never take for granted. There’s a genuine sense of inclusivity here. From vibrant Pride events to the welcoming neighborhoods and businesses, it’s a city where I feel safe, seen, and supported. That sense of belonging is something I didn’t always have, and it’s a big part of why I’ve planted roots here both personally and professionally.

Another thing I absolutely love about Kansas City is the food scene. Sure, we’re known for barbecue—but I’ll be honest, I’m not the biggest BBQ fan. Thankfully, this city offers so much more than just smoked meats. Whether you’re in the mood for casual grab-and-go, a great business lunch, or an upscale fine dining experience, Kansas City delivers. As someone married to a culinary-trained husband, I have high standards—and this city continues to impress. It’s full of hidden gems, international flavors, and creative concepts that make it an exciting place for any food lover.

If I had to pick something I like least, I’d say the city still has room to grow in terms of public transportation and walkability. While there have been strides with things like the KC Streetcar, many parts of the metro still rely heavily on driving. Improving accessibility could really elevate the livability of the city for even more people.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.r-bhomes.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewsellskc
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drewbouge