What’s Up, Wake - Podcast Cary

October 8, 2026

Calling the Canes: Behind the Mic with Carolina Hurricanes Broadcaster Mike Maniscalco

This episode of What's Up, Wake goes behind the mic with Carolina Hurricanes play-by-play announcer Mike Maniscalco. Mike shares how his love of sports turned into a career in broadcasting, from student radio and television to calling Hurricanes games and covering some of the biggest moments in franchise history.
Mike talks about what makes hockey one of the hardest sports to call, the preparation that goes into every game, and how he learns from both his best and worst broadcasts. He also opens up about working alongside Tripp Tracy, the importance of having chemistry with your broadcast partner, and what it is really like to call a game live with thousands of Caniacs reacting to every moment.
The conversation also looks back at the Hurricanes’ run to the Stanley Cup Final, including the emotional moment when Mike and Tripp realized the team had finally reached the championship series. Mike shares what makes Carolina’s fan base so special, why he considers the Lenovo Center one of the loudest buildings in the NHL, and how the Hurricanes have helped turn North Carolina into a true hockey town.
Mike also discusses being named the 2025 North Carolina Sportscaster of the Year, why he hates hearing his own voice, and the surprising fact that despite his job requiring him to be extremely outgoing, he is actually very shy.
The episode wraps up with a What's Up Roundup lightning round covering the hardest Hurricanes player name to say, Jordan Martinook’s personality, the game Mike would love to call in sports history, his favorite catchphrase stories, which player he would call in an emergency, and who he would choose to sound the siren before a Hurricanes game.

00:00 Local Sponsor Spots
01:52 Meet Mike Maniscalco
02:57 Early Sports Dreams
04:39 Buffalo Hockey Roots
06:13 Breaking Into Radio
07:28 Advice For Broadcasters
08:20 Calling Hockey Fast
09:19 Prep And Repetition
12:47 Live Mistakes And Fun
14:08 Broadcast Partner Chemistry
15:25 Inside The Canes Crew
16:56 Caniacs And Game Atmosphere
22:30 Stanley Cup Booth Cam
25:28 Team Bonds And Loyalty
26:28 Calling Big Games Calmly
27:04 Playoff Moments That Stand Out
28:20 Athlete Mindset And Consistency
29:28 Game Six Vegas Nerves
31:22 Sportscaster Of The Year Honor
32:15 Shy Off Mic Reality
34:56 Lightning Round Hurricanes Picks
39:20 Dream Siren Sounders
40:58 Season Wrap And Thanks

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What’s Up Wake is your hyperlocal guide to everything happening in Raleigh, Cary, and across Wake County, North Carolina. From local business spotlights and restaurant openings to community events, lifestyle trends, and conversations with the people shaping the Triangle, this podcast keeps you connected to what’s happening right here at home.

We cover Raleigh NC, Cary NC, Apex NC, Holly Springs NC, Fuquay-Varina NC, Wake Forest NC, Downtown Cary, Downtown Raleigh, and the greater Research Triangle area. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Raleigh, the best restaurants in Cary, Wake County events, local news, small business stories, or hidden gems around the Triangle, What’s Up Wake brings you the voices and stories behind the community.

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

October 1, 2026

The Other Side of Raleigh: Tyree Dudley Shares the Stories of Raleigh’s Unhoused Community

What’s Up Wake features Tyree Dudley, founder of The Other Side of Raleigh, an organization working to connect with Raleigh’s unhoused community and bring attention to stories that often go unnoticed.
Tyree shares how he moved from New Jersey to Raleigh to expand his marketing and branding business, only to discover a much bigger purpose while working downtown near Moore Square. After building relationships with people experiencing homelessness, he began sharing their stories on social media. One of his first videos reached 130,000 views and led to community members immediately stepping up to meet the needs being shared.
The conversation explores the misconceptions surrounding homelessness and why understanding someone’s story matters. Tyree explains how The Other Side of Raleigh works to bridge the gap between people who want to help and people who need help, while also connecting the community with organizations such as Oak City Cares, the Carter Clinic, and Healing Transitions.
Tyree also talks about the Community Makeover, an event that gave 10 community members a day focused on feeling seen and valued. From haircuts and new clothes to shopping, dining, and spending time together, the experience created new friendships and gave participants a chance to feel like part of the community.
The episode also looks at Raleigh’s rapid growth, rising housing costs, the role of government, and Tyree’s hope to eventually expand The Other Side of Raleigh beyond Raleigh to other communities. He shares how the organization has grown far beyond what he originally expected and why he believes the best approach is to take things day by day.
Tyree explains how people can get involved through donations and volunteering at theothersideofraleigh.org, and shares plans for an upcoming car giveaway.

00:00 Presented By
00:10 Bloomin' Blinds Raleigh
00:39 Local Sponsor Spots
01:53 Homelessness Spotlight Setup
02:35 Meet Tyree Dudley
03:23 From Marketing To Mission
05:00 First Story Goes Viral
06:38 Why Other Side Raleigh
08:53 Misconceptions About Homelessness
12:01 Community Steps Up
13:01 Amanda Lamb Joins In
13:56 Making People Feel Seen
18:17 Partnering With Local Nonprofits
19:09 Community Makeover Event
20:13 Giving Back on Birthday
21:01 Makeover Day Emotions
22:36 Next Event Upgrades
23:14 Community Do Gooders
23:53 What Government Can Do
25:57 Raleigh Growth and Displacement
28:12 Bigger Than Raleigh Vision
29:08 How You Can Help
29:38 Five-Year Goals
31:05 Donations, Volunteers, and Car Giveaway
31:59 Where to Follow and Wrap Up

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

September 30, 2026

Home Sweet Home: Exploring the Triangle Real Estate Market with Van Starling

What’s Up, Wake Episode 80 features Melissa in conversation with Van Starling II, managing broker for Hodge and Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty, about the current Triangle real estate market and what buyers and sellers should expect heading into 2027.
Van describes the local market as balanced and much closer to pre COVID conditions, with more inventory giving buyers additional choices and time to make decisions. He also discusses the challenges facing first time home buyers, including rising home prices, down payments, insurance costs, and the importance of planning for the long term rather than searching for a forever home.
The conversation also explores how Raleigh and surrounding communities are changing as more people move into the area. Van shares which towns are seeing major growth, including Angier, Pittsboro, Garner, Clayton, Sanford, and Siler City, along with the challenges that come with building new homes, roads, schools, and other infrastructure.
The episode then shifts to the 2026 Triangle Parade of Homes, including how to use the event to explore new communities and see the latest design trends. Van highlights earth tones, sage greens, wellness spaces, indoor and outdoor living, more defined rooms, and hidden kitchens and sculleries. He also explains how the Parade of Homes app makes it easier to plan which homes to visit.

00:00 Smart Shades Intro
00:38 Local Sponsor Spots
01:52 Market Update Overview
02:56 Balanced Market Explained
05:47 First Time Buyer Advice
09:04 Affordability Reality Check
10:24 Rent Trends And Saving
11:43 Growth Versus Character
14:21 Tear Downs And Design Shifts
20:26 Where Growth Is Heading
21:35 Triangle Growth Hotspots
22:09 Roads and School Strain
23:02 2027 Market Reality Check
23:51 Budgeting Before You Buy
24:38 Why a Crash Is Unlikely
26:38 2008 vs Today Lending
27:08 Parade of Homes Overview
28:31 Design Trends to Watch
29:32 Must Have Home Features
31:22 Planning Your Parade Route
32:59 Hidden Kitchens and Secret Rooms
34:06 The 2026 Triangle Parade of Homes takes place October 3 through 4, October 9 through 11, and October 16 through 18.

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

September 12, 2026

NC Catch (NC seafood Industry/NC Seafood Festival)

North Carolina Seafood: Local Shrimp, Trawling Debate (HB 442) & the NC Seafood Festival

Sponsored in Part by Bloomin’ Blinds Raleigh, we dive into North Carolina’s commercial fishing industry with Amy McCullough of NC Catch. Amy explains NC Catch’s consumer…

North Carolina Seafood: Local Shrimp, Trawling Debate (HB 442) & the NC Seafood Festival

Sponsored in Part by Bloomin’ Blinds Raleigh, we dive into North Carolina’s commercial fishing industry with Amy McCullough of NC Catch. Amy explains NC Catch’s consumer education mission, its statewide chef ambassadors, and how to identify real local seafood by asking questions and looking for menu details. She highlights North Carolina shrimp varieties and seasons, the importance of fishing to coastal economies and multigenerational families, and discusses the controversy around House Bill 442, which proposed restricting inshore shrimp trawling where much of the shrimp is caught; she argues trawling is already highly regulated, and bycatch claims are often outdated. Melissa also interviews Nick Eatman, executive director of the North Carolina Seafood Festival in Morehead City, about the 40th festival, its focus on North Carolina-only seafood, educational tents, Fisherman’s Village, and the Blessing of the Fleet memorial.

00:00 Welcome and Sponsors
01:30 Episode Preview NC Seafood
02:39 Meet NC Catch
04:30 What Counts as Local
06:01 NC Shrimp Seasons
08:54 Fishing Heritage Impact
10:28 House Bill 442 Explained
12:13 Trawling Facts and Gear
17:43 Why It Matters Next
19:31 Commercial vs Recreational
20:23 Seafood Festival Education
22:10 Chef Demos and Dinners
22:55 Favorite Seafood Picks
23:54 Whole Fish Confidence
26:03 Oysters and Terroir
26:59 Wrap Up and Resources
27:41 Meet Nick Eatman
30:21 What Makes It Special
33:17 Local Seafood Only
34:37 Fishermans Village Tours
35:59 Blessing of the Fleet
37:22 Supporting Fishing Families
38:15 Festival Challenges Today
39:26 Final Thanks and Signoff

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

September 12, 2026

Dig in: Backyard-to-Table Tips from Corinne Beirne of The Nourished Garden

Episode 78 of What’s Up Wake explores the world of kitchen gardening with Corinne Beirne, founder of The Nourished Garden. Corinne shares how she went from growing herbs on her back porch to helping others create beautiful, productive gardens that fit into everyday life.
Melissa and Corinne discuss beginner-friendly herbs and vegetables, raised beds, seasonal gardening in Wake County, growing food in small spaces, and why gardeners should focus on growing what they actually eat. They also explore the mental benefits of gardening, including patience, resilience, mindfulness, and the importance of spending time outside.
Corinne also shares her experiences being featured in Martha Stewart, her work teaching gardening workshops, and how she helps people get started with their own kitchen gardens. Her biggest advice for new gardeners is simple: start small, find a sunny space, and grow what you love.

00:00 Show Intro Sponsor
00:06 Smart Blinds Pitch
00:39 Woodworking Sponsor Spot
01:30 Why Grow Your Food
02:36 Meet Corinne Byrne
02:59 Nourished Garden Origin
04:45 What Is Kitchen Garden
06:16 Start Any Space
08:08 Beginner Herbs Veggies
09:40 Workshops Garden Coaching
11:47 Watering Systems Timing
12:23 Fall Cool-Season Crops
14:22 Lettuce Seed Starts
15:12 Winter Harvest Herbs
19:08 Raised Beds Vs Ground
20:05 Soil Compost Basics
20:59 Hydroponics Basics
22:17 Indoor Gardening Options
22:45 Gardening Mindset Shift
24:54 Wellness Through Ritual
27:23 Kids Learning From Gardens
28:34 Start Small Garden Tips
29:58 Harvesting Carrots Right
31:28 Martha Stewart Feature
32:46 Rosemary Migraine Remedy
34:00 Where To Find Her

Find Corinne & The Nourished Garden
Website: www.thenourishedgarden.com
Instagram: @the_nourished_garden

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

September 9, 2026

Feeding NC: Amy Beros of Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina Fights to End Hunger

In this episode of What's Up Wake, Melissa sits down with Amy Beros, President and CEO of the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, to discuss hunger and food insecurity across the region.

Amy shares the story of…

In this episode of What's Up Wake, Melissa sits down with Amy Beros, President and CEO of the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, to discuss hunger and food insecurity across the region.

Amy shares the story of how the Food Bank began in 1980 with Barbara Oates and a small group of volunteers, growing from a card table and phone in a Cary garage into an organization serving 34 counties through six locations. She explains how rising grocery, housing, healthcare, and transportation costs are affecting working families, seniors, and children, and why food insecurity is often much closer to home than people realize.

The conversation also takes listeners behind the scenes of the Food Bank's complex logistics, from moving 100 million pounds of food each year to working with grocery stores, farmers, manufacturers, schools, and community partners. Amy explains how donations such as Food Lion's contributions, locally grown produce, and even unexpected truckloads of strawberries and eggs can quickly make their way into communities that need them.

Melissa and Amy also discuss the stigma surrounding food insecurity, the importance of providing food with dignity, and the challenges of transportation and access in both urban and rural communities. With September being Hunger Action Month, Amy shares ways people can get involved through volunteering, donating, and advocacy, including the Food Bank's Plate It Forward campaign and other community initiatives.

00:00 Bloomin' Blinds Raleigh
00:32 Local Sponsor Spotlight
01:24 Hunger Conversation Begins
02:32 Food Bank Origin Story
04:52 Amy’s Path to Service
05:43 Rising Hunger Crisis
07:08 Kids and School Meals
09:22 Schools and College Pantries
10:07 Inside Food Bank Logistics
13:41 Access and Transportation Barriers
17:01 Farmers and Food Partnerships
19:02 Stigma and Misconceptions
22:05 How You Can Help
24:35 Advocacy and SNAP
26:06 Service Area and Rural Challenges
28:10 Hunger Action Month
29:04 Hope and Youth Leadership
30:30 Get Involved and Closing

foodbankcenc.org

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

September 1, 2026

Exploring Wake County Magnet Schools With Dr. Mariah Walker & Tamani Powell

In this episode of What’s Up, Wake, host Melissa Wistehuff sits down with two women helping shape education in Wake County: Dr. Mariah Walker, principal of Wake Young Women’s Leadership Academy and the 2026 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year, and Tamani Anderson Powell, director of marketing and recruitment for Wake County Public School System’s magnet programs. Both have also been recognized as Women of Western Wake honorees. They explain what makes Wake County’s magnet schools different, from leadership and STEM to visual and performing arts, International Baccalaureate programs, language immersion, early college opportunities, and specialized learning environments.

Dr. Walker shares how Wake Young Women’s Leadership Academy combines leadership development with early college opportunities, allowing students to earn up to 60 college credits at no cost through its partnership with Shaw University. Many graduates can enter college academically positioned as sophomores or juniors. Tamani breaks down how magnet schools work for Wake County families, including base schools, applications, the weighted selection process, and why choosing a school should be about finding the environment where an individual student can thrive — not simply choosing the program a parent thinks sounds best.

00:00 Smart Shades Intro
00:32 Local Sponsor Spots
01:25 Show Opens
01:48 Meet The Guests
02:41 Mariah Background
06:00 Tamani Background
08:05 Principal Of The Year
11:02 Leadership Advice
14:37 Women Of Western Wake
15:12 Wake YWLA Explained
16:56 Early College Credits
20:22 What Magnet Means
23:32 Magnet Logistics Basics
24:15 Choosing Magnet Schools
25:14 Lottery and Student Fit
27:29 Magnet Themes Explained
28:08 IB and Immersion Options
30:20 College and Career Prep
35:06 Tours and Info Sessions
36:53 Final Thanks and Wrap
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What’s Up Wake is your hyperlocal guide to everything happening in Raleigh, Cary, and across Wake County, North Carolina. From local business spotlights and restaurant openings to community events, lifestyle trends, and conversations with the people shaping the Triangle, this podcast keeps you connected to what’s happening right here at home.

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

August 31, 2026

Uncovering Raleigh's WEIRDEST untold stories! You won't believe it!

The Raleigh You've Never Seen: A Secret Guide to the City with Emily Price

Secret Raleigh with Emily Price: Hidden Gems, Ghost Stories & Lost Landmarks

Melissa interviews Emily Price, author of “Secret Raleigh: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful…

July 31, 2026

The Raleigh You've Never Seen: A Secret Guide to the City with Emily Price

Secret Raleigh with Emily Price: Hidden Gems, Ghost Stories & Lost Landmarks

Melissa interviews Emily Price, author of “Secret Raleigh: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure,” about unusual and mysterious places around Raleigh. Price explains her love of…

Secret Raleigh with Emily Price: Hidden Gems, Ghost Stories & Lost Landmarks

Melissa interviews Emily Price, author of “Secret Raleigh: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure,” about unusual and mysterious places around Raleigh. Price explains her love of weird history and how she researched multiple versions of local legends using the North Carolina Archives and old newspapers. She shares crowd-pleasing finds like one of the first electric guitars being made at NC State, the pink dog remnant of Gotno Farm behind Preservation NC on Oberlin Road, and haunted lore including the Heck-Andrews House and a reportedly haunted room in the governor’s mansion. The conversation also covers Hargett Street’s “Black Main Street,” Bloomsbury Park’s former rides and carousel now at Pullen Park, and recommendations like downtown wandering, the Muffler Man landmark, and visiting Raleigh Times.

00:00 Sponsor Messages
01:44 Meet Emily Price
03:05 Why Raleigh Secrets
04:48 Fact Checking Legends
05:59 Crowd Pleasers
07:00 Cut Stories Food Focus
08:33 Gotno Farm Pink Dog
10:14 Hotels Taverns History
14:28 Pretty Places Waterfall
18:00 Ghost Stories Begin
19:04 Haunted House Update
19:48 Raleigh Ghost Stories
20:46 Black Main Street History
24:00 Bloomsbury Park Rides
26:40 Pullen Park Zoo Tales
28:21 Future North Carolina Book
29:14 Lightning Round Favorites
32:56 Where to Buy Secret Raleigh

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

July 31, 2026

From Shelters to Forever Homes: Highlighting Wake SPCA with Kim Janzen

SPCA of Wake County: Rescue Stories, Affordable Vet Care & the New Peggy Garner Britt Resource Center

This episode features Kim Janzen, president and CEO of the SPCA of Wake County, discussing the organization’s mission, funding, and evolving approach to…

SPCA of Wake County: Rescue Stories, Affordable Vet Care & the New Peggy Garner Britt Resource Center

This episode features Kim Janzen, president and CEO of the SPCA of Wake County, discussing the organization’s mission, funding, and evolving approach to animal welfare. Kim explains that SPCA of Wake County is not affiliated with the ASPCA and is funded primarily by private donations and fees for service. She shares how the shelter has shifted in recent years toward supporting “the other end of the leash” by helping families keep pets at home, especially as veterinary costs rise and financially driven surrenders increase. The conversation covers misconceptions about shelter animals, trends showing more cats than dogs entering shelters, and the SPCA’s intake of animals from 58 rural counties to prevent unnecessary euthanasia. Kim highlights expanded low-cost spay/neuter services and the new 47,000-square-foot Peggy Garner Britt Resource Center in South Raleigh, and outlines ways to help through adopting, donating, volunteering, fostering, and birthday donation drives.

00:00 Sponsor Ting Internet
00:30 Local Woodworking Sponsor
00:45 Cary Car Care Sponsor
01:44 Meet SPCA Wake Leader
03:13 Kim’s Path to SPCA
03:36 Mission and Funding
04:25 No Typical Day
04:51 How SPCA Evolved
06:18 Shelter Misconceptions
08:51 Adoption Trends and Costs
10:46 Beyond Cats and Dogs
13:25 Rescue Story Spotlight
15:15 Spay Neuter Programs
16:55 Why Adopt First
17:15 Finding the Right Match
18:59 Ways to Support SPCA
20:07 Volunteers and Fosters
20:53 New Resource Center Tour
22:28 How You Can Help Now
23:09 Hope and Closing

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

July 31, 2026

Lazy Daze: Cary's Premier Summer Festival with Jenna Kostka

50th Annual Lazy Days Arts & Crafts Festival in Cary: What to Expect + Insider Tips
The episode spotlights Cary’s 50th annual Lazy Days Arts and Crafts Festival, a two-day downtown event that draws about 50,000 visitors and features 250+ juried artist booths, live music, food, family activities, and more. Host interviews Jenna Kostka, the Town of Cary’s festival and events supervisor, about the festival’s origins (named for the “lazy days of summer” by founder Jerry Miller), the juried artist selection process (500 applicants for just over 250 spots), and what makes the festival unique, including four stages, a beer garden with local breweries, Kid Days programming, and the Kid Collectors Market for ages 6–12. Jenna shares planning details, Sunday’s sensory-friendly first two hours, and how to prepare using carync.gov/lazydaze and @caryartdaze.

00:00 Welcome to Lazy Daze
02:40 Meet Jenna Kostka
04:00 Festival Scale and Name
05:21 What to Expect
06:06 How Artists Are Chosen
07:22 Beyond Art Kids and Music
09:07 Kid Collectors Market
10:34 Planning and Logistics
18:01 Volunteers and Chaos
19:45 Festival Mishaps and Weather
21:07 Why Lazy Days Stands Out
22:34 Best Food Picks
23:53 Pro Tips and Sunday Calm
26:03 Beer Garden and Lounge
27:03 Anniversary and New Artists
29:49 Dates Links and Farewell

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

July 31, 2026

Camp Kesem: Empowering Kids through Shared Journeys

This episode features an interview with Camp Kesem regional program coordinator Jenna Rumsey and former camper turned counselor Grace Kester about Camp Kesem, a nonprofit providing free summer camp and year-round support for children whose parents are affected by cancer, including diagnosis, treatment, remission, and loss. They explain Kesem’s three main programs—Camp Kesem, Club Kesem (monthly virtual meetups), and Kesem Together (daytime community programs)—and how 115 college chapters and thousands of student volunteers, many of them former campers, create trust and relatability. The conversation highlights camp traditions, nicknames, and the “empowerment” session that helps kids share stories and build resilience, plus how to donate or get involved via kesem.org and local North Carolina chapters.

00:00 Local Sponsors Intro
01:44 Summer Camp Setup
03:04 Kesem Mission Programs
04:29 Student Volunteers Origins
08:12 Grace Camper Story
11:02 Fun Plus Empowerment
16:56 Nicknames Traditions
19:23 Chapter Vibes Moments
23:02 Growth Impact Stories
26:32 Partners Favorite Memories
29:55 Donate Get Involved
32:05 Festival Closing Ad

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

July 30, 2026

Brewing Something Special with Sam Nelson of Pretty Good Coffee Company

Melissa interviews Sam Nelson, owner of Pretty Good Coffee Company, a North Carolina-based luxury mobile coffee cart business that grew from his home espresso hobby into a catering-focused operation. Sam explains why he chose the cart model over a brick-and-mortar shop, emphasizing flexibility and lower overhead, and shares how the “Pretty Good” name became a fun part of the brand. He describes his Chick-fil-A-inspired approach to fast, friendly hospitality and breaks down what “specialty coffee” means — precision, consistency, and even water quality — while noting their partnership with Black & White Coffee Roasters in Wake Forest. They discuss latte art, including a latte-art printer for custom logos and faces, how they balance speed and quality, training baristas for friendliness first, favorite events, launching a third cart, and future expansion into other mobile food and beverage concepts like bartending.

00:00 Meet Sam Nelson
02:52 From Chicago to Raleigh
03:22 Birthday Espresso Spark
03:52 Why Coffee on Wheels
05:19 The Pretty Good Name
06:17 Chick-fil-A Service Mindset
07:20 What Is Specialty Coffee
09:14 Beans Origins and Processing
12:09 Latte Art and Printers
13:51 Speed Quality and Gear
15:13 How Booking Works
17:37 Favorite Clients and Dream Venues
19:06 Decaf After 5 PM
19:19 Favorite Event Venues
19:59 Leadership Lessons Learned
21:14 Hiring Friendly Baristas
22:05 Latte Art Is Hard
23:09 Perfect Day Running Carts
24:00 Indoor vs Outdoor Setups
24:38 Three Carts Scaling Up
25:06 Future Beyond Coffee
26:22 Lightning Round Fun
27:16 Seasonal Signature Drinks
28:31 Wild Latte Art Requests
29:28 Where To Book Them
29:48 Final Thanks And Wrap

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

July 23, 2026

A Taste for Telling Stories with Food Writer David McCreary

Melissa interviews David McCreary, a freelance food feature writer for Cary Magazine and Main & Broad since 2004, about how he got into food writing, his process for pitching and covering monthly themes, and why he focuses on positive storytelling rather than anonymous food criticism. David discusses changes in the Triangle dining scene over the past 20 years, highlighting growth in Cary, Fenton, Holly Springs, Apex, and Fuquay-Varina, and emphasizes supporting local restaurateurs in a volatile industry. He shares tips for aspiring food writers, his biggest restaurant turnoff (a dirty restroom), and recommendations including Cilantro Indian Cafe, Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi, Crawford Brothers Steakhouse, and the hidden gem Frankie Frankk’s Hot Dog Cart, plus nostalgia picks like Darryl’s and Mr. Dunderbak’s.

00:00 Meet the Food Writer
02:42 How He Got Started
03:24 The Art of Describing Food
04:11 Behind the Scenes Process
05:39 Saying No to Bad Fits
06:20 Not a Critic, Just Positive
07:53 What Makes Dining Great
08:40 Triangle Food Boom
10:49 Why Local Restaurants Matter
12:49 Favorite Bites and Trends
16:10 Foods He Avoids
17:25 Closures and Covid Impact
18:37 Keeping Writing Fresh
19:40 Food Critics Then and Now
20:28 Food Critics Today
20:53 Influencers Shape Dining
21:38 Bathroom Cleanliness Test
23:24 Restaurants Worth Reviving
24:34 Hard Parts of Food Writing
26:14 Hidden Gem Hot Dogs
29:03 Awkward Check Surprise
30:49 Tips for New Food Writers
32:25 Triangle Weekend Must Eats
34:29 Wrap-Up and Thanks.

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What’s Up, Wake is your hyperlocal guide to everything happening in Raleigh, Cary, and across Wake County, North Carolina. From local business spotlights and restaurant openings to community events, lifestyle trends, and conversations with the people shaping the Triangle, this podcast keeps you connected to what’s happening right here at home.

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

July 21, 2026

How HUB Certification Helps Small Businesses Grow in Holly Springs, NC

Inside Holly Springs Growth with Tonya Palumbo

July 16, 2026

Inside Holly Springs Growth with Tonya Palumbo

Executive Director Tonya Palumbo discusses how the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce supports local businesses as a 501(c)(6) membership organization, distinct from government and from 501(c)(3) nonprofits. She shares how member needs have shifted through rapid growth and rising costs, highlighting resources like business education, advocacy, networking, and access to small-business health insurance options through partnerships including the NC Chamber and Carolina HealthWorks. Palumbo explains initiatives such as joint ribbon cuttings that connect multiple businesses at once and the chamber’s supplier program that helps historically underutilized businesses become HUB certified and connect with large employers like Fujifilm and Amgen to keep spending local. She also covers fundraising efforts that have raised over $100,000 for the Holly Springs Food Cupboard, downtown revitalization, community festivals, and the chamber’s milestone of a female-led executive committee and board.

00:00 Meet Tonya Palumbo
02:20 Photography Roots
03:51 What Chambers Do
04:54 Small Business Needs
08:06 Big Growth Impact
08:44 Supplier Hub Program
10:52 Downtown Boom
12:52 Joint Ribbon Cuttings
16:21 Food Cupboard Fundraising
18:48 Women Leading Chamber
21:30 Supplier Program Deep Dive
23:58 Events and Future
26:07 Why Join Chamber
28:37 How to Connect
29:11 Closing Thanks

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

July 9, 2026

The Real Story Behind the North Carolina Accent with Dr. Walt Wolfram

What does the way you speak reveal about who you are?
In this fascinating episode, Melissa sits down with Dr. Walt Wolfram, the William C. Friday Distinguished University Professor at NC State University and one of America's foremost experts on dialects and sociolinguistics. Together, they explore the rich history behind North Carolina's accents, the stories they preserve, and why language is one of our state's greatest cultural treasures.
From the famous Outer Banks "Hoi Toider" brogue to Appalachian English, African American English, Cherokee, and the rise of "y'all" across America, Dr. Wolfram explains how geography, history, immigration, and culture shaped the way North Carolinians speak.
The conversation also explores disappearing dialects, the preservation of the Cherokee language, the surprising origin of the word "dingbatter," why outsiders judge Southern accents, and why every person's voice tells a unique story.
Whether you're a lifelong North Carolinian, a history enthusiast, or simply fascinated by language, this episode will change the way you hear the people around you.

02:00 – Introducing Dr. Walt Wolfram
04:00 – How growing up in a German immigrant family shaped his life's work
07:00 – Why every person's story matters
09:00 – The unique dialects of Ocracoke and the Outer Banks
11:00 – Is the Outer Banks accent really Elizabethan English?
12:00 – The surprising origin of the word "dingbatter"
13:00 – Inside Talkin' Tar Heel and documenting North Carolina speech
14:00 – Hearing the famous "Hoi Toider" accent
15:00 – Harkers Island and North Carolina's coastal dialects
18:00 – Why North Carolina has more dialect diversity than any other state
23:00 – Why Southern accents should be celebrated
24:00 – Saving the Cherokee language before it's lost
29:00 – Why accents create stereotypes
30:00 – The history of "y'all" and why it's spreading across America
31:00 – Favorite stories from decades of field research
33:00 – Giving back to the communities that preserve language
35:00 – The story behind "North Cackalacky"
36:00 – Can your accent reveal where you're from?
38:00 – Dr. Wolfram's retirement and continuing his life's work

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

July 2, 2026

How Shibumi Shade Took Over the Beach with Dane Barnes

How Shibumi Shade Became North Carolina’s Unofficial Beach Flag | 10 Years of a Homegrown Idea

Ahead of the July 4th beach rush, the episode features Dane Barnes, co-founder of Shibumi Shade, reflecting on the company’s 10-year rise from a…

How Shibumi Shade Became North Carolina’s Unofficial Beach Flag | 10 Years of a Homegrown Idea

Ahead of the July 4th beach rush, the episode features Dane Barnes, co-founder of Shibumi Shade, reflecting on the company’s 10-year rise from a DIY wind-powered shade prototype made from hardware-store materials to a common sight on North Carolina beaches. Dane explains how he, his brother Scott, and friend Alex — without sewing or product experience — built early shades for their own family trips to Emerald Isle, began taking orders in 2016, and later grew into a Raleigh-based business with defined roles across sales, operations, and marketing. He shares the meaning of “Shibumi,” discusses the Quiet Canopy and the shift from local manufacturing to overseas production, clarifies misconceptions about beach bans, and highlights new products including the Shibumi Chair and the Park Vista shade for grass.

00:00 Sponsor Messages
01:44 July 4 Beach Setup
02:53 Origin Story Prototype
05:13 From Hobby to Orders
06:15 Meaning of Shibumi
06:55 How the Shade Works
08:09 Founders and Roles
09:51 Manufacturing and Quiet Canopy
10:44 Beach Bans Explained
14:26 Becoming a Must-Have
15:23 New Colors and Editions
17:05 Why Raleigh Base
18:07 Lessons in Entrepreneurship
19:54 New Products Park and Chair
23:06 What's Next and Brand Magic
24:50 Lightning Round Favorites
26:59 Where to Buy Closing

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

June 25, 2026

Lost Towns and Ghost Stories: A Conversation with Heather Leah

In this episode, local storyteller, historian, and author Heather Leah shares how she began writing online more than a decade ago, grew a large following by blending deep research with engaging “hidden history,” and why preserving local stories matters as places vanish. She discusses mysteries like the Village Subway beneath Cameron Village, underwater communities beneath Jordan Lake such as Seaforth, and how towns can be erased from maps and memory. Heather explains balancing fun, shocking history with heavier subjects, her approach to ghost stories as cultural history, and why the Dorothea Dix property feels especially haunted. She also describes her research process, how followers contribute leads, and how she turned her work into her first book, “Lost Towns of North Carolina,” built through travel, photos, and interviews with people connected to lost communities.

00:00 Meet Heather Leah
03:15 How It All Started
04:56 From Community to History
06:21 Vanishing Places
09:03 Jordan Lake Ghost Towns
13:00 Towns Wiped Off Maps
14:00 Balancing Light and Heavy
16:29 Ghost Stories as Culture
18:18 Dorothy Dix Haunted History
20:11 Crybaby Lane Investigation
21:49 Paranormal Tours
24:13 Story Idea System
25:15 Follower Submitted History
27:50 From Posts to Book
31:37 Researching Lost Towns
35:19 Book Launch Emotions
37:47 Time Travel Raleigh
40:41 Where to Find Heather
41:35 Final Thanks

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

June 18, 2026

Raleigh's Culinary Growth: An Interview with Amber Moshakos

Melissa interviews Amber Moshakos of family-owned LM Restaurants, the group behind concepts including Carolina Ale House, Taverna Agora, Birdie’s Ballroom, Vidrio, Oceanic/Bluewater in Wrightsville Beach, and SMASH on Glenwood South. Amber shares her parents’ immigrant story, how LM began as a 48-seat Florida oyster bar, and why the family moved to Raleigh after expanding Miami Subs. She discusses growing up in the business, choosing restaurants over medical school, and the pros and cons of working with family. The conversation covers Raleigh as an emerging, diverse dining market, current industry challenges like thin margins and rising credit card fees, what makes restaurants successful, and why experience-driven venues are growing. Amber also mentions favorite menu items, spots she wants to try, and upcoming LM projects in Florida and brand updates in Raleigh.

00:00 Meet Amber Moshakos
02:42 Family Origins and First Restaurant
04:58 Greek Roots Behind Taverna Agora
05:49 Moving to Raleigh and Early Growth
07:16 Choosing Restaurants Over Medicine
07:58 Making Family Business Work
09:20 LM Expansion and Florida Return
12:00 Raleigh Food Scene Evolution
17:13 Industry Challenges and Credit Fees
19:24 Sales Tax Relief Push
20:11 Restaurant Success Formula
20:58 Experience Dining Trend
22:33 Glenwood South Safety Plan
24:44 Advice for New Restaurateurs
26:43 Favorite Dishes Rundown
28:04 Non-LM Date Night Picks
29:51 What’s Next for LM
31:36 Hiring and Career Myths
32:55 Closing Thanks and Wrap

We cover Raleigh NC, Cary NC, Apex NC, Holly Springs NC, Fuquay-Varina NC, Wake Forest NC, Downtown Cary, Downtown Raleigh, and the greater Research Triangle area. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Raleigh, the best restaurants in Cary, Wake County events, local news, small business stories, or hidden gems around the Triangle, What’s Up, Wake brings you the voices and stories behind the community.

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

June 11, 2026

A Fun Spin on Dentistry: Dr. McCormick’s Entertaining Venture

Bryden McCormick, a Fuquay-Varina dentist and owner of Fuquay Family Dentistry, shares how he went from economics and banking to dentistry, then to creating McWally’s after seeing the town’s need for a family entertainment spot. He explains the years-long process from concept to opening on August 20, 2025, including feasibility studies, working with family entertainment consultants, covid-driven cost increases that doubled the project to $20 million, and securing SBA financing through a small Wisconsin bank. With events and marketing manager Emilee Jones, he highlights McWally’s bowling, arcade, food, bar, outdoor patio, and 5,000-square-foot laser tag arena, plus the challenges of managing a large teen staff, heavy party volume, and plans for a potential second location.

00:00 Dentist Meets Fun
02:50 Why Dentistry Chose Him
04:11 Landing in Fuquay-Varina
05:02 The McWally's Idea
06:08 Covid Costs and Investors
07:43 Naming McWally's
08:44 Balancing Two Businesses
09:41 Financing Hurdles
11:01 Emily Runs Events Marketing
12:26 Laser Tag and Murals
16:03 Community Reaction and Vision
18:34 Running Day to Day
19:26 Leadership Behind Scenes
20:17 Juggling Parties
21:08 Bright Open Vibe
23:29 Favorite Activities
24:27 Advice for New Owners
26:45 Dream Add-Ons
27:32 Second Location Plans
28:25 Surviving Weekend Rush
28:55 Year Two Excitement
30:01 Follow and Book Parties
30:26 Closing Thanks

We cover Raleigh NC, Cary NC, Apex NC, Holly Springs NC, Fuquay-Varina NC, Wake Forest NC, Downtown Cary, Downtown Raleigh, and the greater Research Triangle area. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Raleigh, the best restaurants in Cary, Wake County events, local news, small business stories, or hidden gems around the Triangle, What’s Up, Wake brings you the voices and stories behind the community.

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

June 4, 2026

From Broadway to Raleigh: The Journey of Lauren Kennedy Brady

Lauren Kennedy Brady, a Raleigh native and Broadway performer, shares how early community theater and mentors led her to a BFA at the University of Cincinnati and a Broadway debut in Sunset Boulevard through an agent connection, while describing the instability and rejection of acting careers. She explains her unexpected transition back to Raleigh after her father helped establish the Kennedy Theatre and a small summer season evolved into Theatre Raleigh, which she grew for 16–17 years into the area’s only professional theater, distinguished by paying artists under an Actors’ Equity agreement. Lauren discusses challenges that contributed to North Carolina Theatre’s closure, Theatre Raleigh’s intimate, affordable, immersive approach, its industrial-park location, and recent expansion including the Green Room coffee shop and a merger with Raleigh ACT serving 450 students. She previews upcoming productions including Dear Evan Hansen, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, and a holiday play plus a New Year’s Eve event.

00:00 Meet Lauren Kennedy Brady
02:44 Raleigh Roots in Theater
04:14 Breaking Into Broadway
05:50 Rejection and Staying Ready
07:35 From Actor to Producer
09:53 Returning Home to Raleigh
13:12 Broadway Backstage Reality
14:19 Raleigh Theater Scene Today
16:49 Theater Raleigh Location Vibe
18:21 Education Program and Raleigh Act
20:03 What Makes a Pro Theater
21:11 Equity Contract Explained
23:16 Why NC Theatre Closed
24:48 Tours vs Regional Theatre
25:48 Small Space Sustainability
27:01 Picking Shows for Raleigh
28:28 Cozy Immersive Experience
29:44 A Day in the Office
31:24 Coffee Shop and Education Hub
32:04 Staying Creative as a Producer
33:32 Dream Shows and Big Goals
34:54 Upcoming Season Highlights
36:33 Tickets and Final Thanks

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

May 28, 2026

Beyond Awareness: The Invictus Project's Mission Against Exploitation

Melissa talks with Whitney Miller, Vice President of The Invictus Project, and Michael Phillips about combating the sexual exploitation and trafficking of children in North Carolina through partnerships with law enforcement, including four sheriff’s offices, the State Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations. Whitney explains how technology and COVID-era shifts drove cyber tips from about 4,000 in 2019 to 52,000 last year, shares warning signs for parents, and emphasizes proactive conversations at home. Michael Phillips of Phillips Farm returns to discuss hosting a fundraising event for Invictus: the C10S Tailgate Party on June 6, featuring classic Chevy trucks (1998 and older), vendors, food trucks, live music, kid activities, and Invictus resources, with truck registration at c10stailgateparty.com and more information at invictusproject.org.

00:00 Crisis And Guests
02:30 Invictus Mission
03:58 Tech Shift Since COVID
07:40 Task Force Partnership
08:33 Funding And Tools Gap
13:16 Parent Conversations
15:37 Warning Signs And Access
19:34 Michael’s Dad Tactics
21:27 Kids Online Fame Risks
21:50 Handling Online Attention
22:31 Farm Life Boundaries
23:05 Safety Talks And Code Words
24:18 Why Support Invictus
27:55 Truck Show Details
30:56 Family Fun At Event
33:27 Why C10s Only
36:58 Summer Festivals Preview
38:46 Invictus Links And Wrap

New episodes feature local business interviews, community leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, restaurants, events, and organizations making an impact across North Carolina’s fastest-growing region.

If you live in Wake County, are moving to Raleigh or Cary, or just want to stay plugged into the Triangle lifestyle, subscribe and join the conversation.

#RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC #RaleighPodcast #CaryPodcast #LocalNews #NorthCarolina #HyperlocalPodcast #RaleighRestaurants #CaryRestaurants #ThingsToDoInRaleigh

Cary Magazine: https://www.carymagazine.com
Wake Living: https://wakeliving.com
Main & Broad: https://www.mainandbroadmag.com

May 21, 2026

Batter Up! Michael Villafana Talks Salamanders Baseball

The host interviews Michael Villafana, general manager of the Holly Springs Salamanders, about his path from sport management and marketing at Seton Hall to baseball roles in St. Paul and Worcester before moving to North Carolina and joining the Salamanders…

May 14, 2026

Debunking Skincare Myths with Dr. Thomas Knackstedt

In this summer skincare episode, host Melissa talks with dermatologist Dr. Thomas Knackstedt about keeping skin healthy without overcomplicating routines, emphasizing a simple cleanser–moisturizer–sunscreen approach and the importance of consistency, sleep, diet, hydration, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol. They…

May 7, 2026

Seaside Stories with NY Times Bestselling Author Kristy Woodson Harvey

The episode features an interview with New York Times bestselling author Kristy Woodson Harvey, celebrating the release of her 13th novel, Summer State of Mind. Harvey discusses studying journalism at UNC, pivoting through a finance sales job that built resilience,…

April 30, 2026

Bagel Haven: Jeff's Bagel Run Owner and 127 Haven Founder Ryan McEvoy

Ryan McEvoy, owner of Jeff’s Bagel Run locations in Wake Forest and Rolesville (with a Raleigh shop opening near Glen Lake), shares how his experience helping build the uBreakiFix franchise led him into the bagel business and helps fund his…

April 23, 2026

Unlocking Your Full Potential with Jody Donaldson

Join us as we dive into a conversation with Jody Donaldson, owner of Alloy Personal Training and host of The Progress Zone podcast. Discover the key to sustainable growth in fitness and life, as Jody shares his journey from a…

April 16, 2026

Moves Like Swagger: Shop Success with Mandy Becker

Melissa interviews Mandy Becker, owner of Swagger Boutique, a women’s style destination in Wake County with locations in Raleigh and Cary. Mandy shares how a beloved South Georgia gift shop inspired her, how she earned an engineering degree at Georgia…

April 9, 2026

The Big Cheese with Frank Yarborough of Frankie B's

Host Melissa interviews Frank Yarborough, creator of Frankie B’s pimento cheese, just days before the Pimento Cheese Festival in Downtown Cary Park. Frank shares how he grew up with his mother’s pimento cheese, learned the family recipe after she passed,…

April 2, 2026

From Sgt. Pepper to Sasq'et with Storyteller Maxim Langstaff

Storyteller and Grammy/Emmy-nominated writer-producer Maxim Langstaff discusses his decades behind the scenes with music legends including John Denver and Beatles producer George Martin, describing how his John Denver Wildlife Concert work led to a 16–17 year collaboration with Martin on…

March 26, 2026

Chatting Collectibles with Adam and Tara of Triangle Area Trading Cards

Join us as we dive into the world of card collecting with Tara and Adam Reynolds, the masterminds behind Triangle Area Trading Cards. From childhood nostalgia to serious collecting, they share their journey from avid collectors to successful business owners…

March 19, 2026

Rolling the Dice with That's Spot On! Designers Sue and Linda

Join us as we dive deep into the inspiring story behind That's Spot On!, a board game created by friends Linda Pelnik and Sue Dohm. Discover how their shared love for family game nights led to the creation of a…

March 12, 2026

Today in the Quay with Jason Wunsch

Jason, creator of the “Today in the Quay” Facebook page, shares how he built a positive hub for Fuquay-Varina updates over 12 years, growing to about 30,000 followers. He discusses moderating the page, highlighting youth sports and local business openings,…

March 5, 2026

Rinkside with Carolina Hurricanes Player Jordan Martinook

Host Melissa Wistehuff takes “What’s Up, Wake” on a rink trip to Invisalign Arena, the Carolina Hurricanes’ practice facility, for a conversation with Hurricanes forward Jordan Martinook. He discusses watching the Olympics (and rooting for Canada), his pick for a…

February 26, 2026

From Pharmaceuticals to Pastries: Hanadi Asad of Asali Desserts & Cafe

In this episode of 'What's Up, Wake,' we delve into the heart and culture behind one of MacGregor Village's beloved gourmet sweet shops, Asali Desserts & Cafe. Melissa engages in a heartfelt discussion with owner Hanadi Asad, exploring how her…

February 19, 2026

A Beacon of Hope: NeighborUp CEO André Anthony

In this episode, we highlight the inspiring work of NeighborUp, a nonprofit born from the merger of Dorcas Ministries and Western Wake Crisis Ministry. Host Melissa is joined by André Anthony, CEO of NeighborUp, who shares his personal journey from…

February 12, 2026

Art in Bloom: Inside the NCMA with Director Valerie Hillings

Join Melissa as she interviews Valerie Hillings, the Director of the North Carolina Museum of Art. Valerie shares her journey from studying art history at Duke University to leading the museum. They delve into the upcoming Art in Bloom exhibit,…

February 5, 2026

Visit Raleigh: An Insider's Guide with Jessica Holt

Join us as we chat with Jessica Holt, the Director of Public Relations and International Tourism for Visit Raleigh, about what makes Raleigh a top destination. From its burgeoning food scene and festivals to its sports and Southern charm, discover…

February 5, 2026

Navigating Perimenopause with Jamie Gallagher

In this episode of 'What's Up Wake,' originally aired January 15, 2026, we focus on women's health, specifically perimenopause. Host Melissa welcomes Jamie Gallagher, a board-certified nurse practitioner and perimenopause specialist. Jamie shares her journey and expertise, discussing symptoms, misconceptions,…

February 5, 2026

Fitness for All: A Journey with Adrien and Meagan

In this episode of What's Up, Wake, originally posted on January 8, 2026, we dive into New Year's resolutions with a special focus on fitness goals. Join us as we talk to Adrien King and Meagan H. Jacobs, owners of…

January 29, 2026

Kickstart Your 2026 Financial Goals with Expert Tips from Joe Mecca

In this episode, we shift the focus from health and travel New Year's resolutions to financial wellness for 2026. Special guest Joe Mecca from Coastal Credit Union shares his top five tips for smarter saving, intentional spending, maintaining an emergency…

January 22, 2026

NC Travel from East to West

In this episode, we dive into an exploration of two charming travel destinations in North Carolina: Edenton and West Jefferson. Susan Martin Cyr, owner of Edenton's Inner Banks Inn, shares insights about the historic bed and breakfast, the significance of…

January 15, 2026

Navigating Perimenopause with Jamie Gallagher

In this episode of 'What's Up Wake,' we focus on women's health, specifically perimenopause. Host Melissa welcomes Jamie Gallagher, a board-certified nurse practitioner and perimenopause specialist. Jamie shares her journey and expertise, discussing symptoms, misconceptions, and treatment options for perimenopause…

January 2, 2026

The Science and Benefits of IV Hydration Therapy with Dr. Jonathan Leake

In this episode, we dive into the rising trend of IV hydration therapy with Dr. Jonathan Leake from Hydrate Medical. Discover how IV hydration can combat dehydration, boost energy, and enhance overall wellness. Dr. Leake shares his journey from being…

January 2, 2026

Irregardless: An Interview with Owner Lee Robinson

Join us as we sit down with Lee Robinson, the owner of Irregardless, a beloved restaurant in Raleigh that has been a community cornerstone for over 50 years. In this episode, Lee shares the rich history of Irregardless, from its…

January 2, 2026

Torry Holt on Building Legacy On and Off the Field

In this episode of What's Up, Wake, host Melissa sits down with former NFL star and NC State legend Torry Holt and the executive director of the Holt Brothers Foundation, Liz McLean. They discuss Torry's transition from football to community…

January 2, 2026

Celebrating 50+ Years of 'A Christmas Carol' with Ira David Wood III & IV

In this festive episode, we delve into the rich history of Raleigh's cherished 'A Christmas Carol' production at Theatre in the Park. Ira David Wood III and his son Ira David Wood IV to reflect on the musical comedy adaptation…

January 2, 2026

Sweet Success: How India Matlock Built Asia's Cakes from Scratch

In this episode, we sit down with India Matlock, the creative force behind Asia's Cakes in Holly Springs. India shares her journey of growing up in a family of bakers, the influence of her father's passion for baking, and how…

January 2, 2026

The Heartwarming Mission of Esteamed Coffee: An Interview with Julie Walker

In this episode, we explore Esteamed Coffee, a unique coffee shop in Cary situated in a quaint 1940s cottage on Academy Street. Known for its mission to provide meaningful employment and social opportunities to adults with intellectual, developmental, and visual…

Calling the Canes: Behind the Mic with Carolina Hurricanes Broadcaster Mike Maniscalco

The Other Side of Raleigh: Tyree Dudley Shares the Stories of Raleigh’s Unhoused Community

Home Sweet Home: Exploring the Triangle Real Estate Market with Van Starling

NC Catch (NC seafood Industry/NC Seafood Festival)

Dig in: Backyard-to-Table Tips from Corinne Beirne of The Nourished Garden

Feeding NC: Amy Beros of Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina Fights to End Hunger

Exploring Wake County Magnet Schools With Dr. Mariah Walker & Tamani Powell

Uncovering Raleigh's WEIRDEST untold stories! You won't believe it!

The Raleigh You've Never Seen: A Secret Guide to the City with Emily Price

From Shelters to Forever Homes: Highlighting Wake SPCA with Kim Janzen

Lazy Daze: Cary's Premier Summer Festival with Jenna Kostka

Camp Kesem: Empowering Kids through Shared Journeys

Brewing Something Special with Sam Nelson of Pretty Good Coffee Company

A Taste for Telling Stories with Food Writer David McCreary

How HUB Certification Helps Small Businesses Grow in Holly Springs, NC

Inside Holly Springs Growth with Tonya Palumbo

The Real Story Behind the North Carolina Accent with Dr. Walt Wolfram

How Shibumi Shade Took Over the Beach with Dane Barnes

Lost Towns and Ghost Stories: A Conversation with Heather Leah

Raleigh's Culinary Growth: An Interview with Amber Moshakos

A Fun Spin on Dentistry: Dr. McCormick’s Entertaining Venture

From Broadway to Raleigh: The Journey of Lauren Kennedy Brady

Beyond Awareness: The Invictus Project's Mission Against Exploitation

Batter Up! Michael Villafana Talks Salamanders Baseball

Debunking Skincare Myths with Dr. Thomas Knackstedt

Seaside Stories with NY Times Bestselling Author Kristy Woodson Harvey

Bagel Haven: Jeff's Bagel Run Owner and 127 Haven Founder Ryan McEvoy

Unlocking Your Full Potential with Jody Donaldson

Moves Like Swagger: Shop Success with Mandy Becker

The Big Cheese with Frank Yarborough of Frankie B's

From Sgt. Pepper to Sasq'et with Storyteller Maxim Langstaff

Chatting Collectibles with Adam and Tara of Triangle Area Trading Cards

Rolling the Dice with That's Spot On! Designers Sue and Linda

Today in the Quay with Jason Wunsch

Rinkside with Carolina Hurricanes Player Jordan Martinook

From Pharmaceuticals to Pastries: Hanadi Asad of Asali Desserts & Cafe

A Beacon of Hope: NeighborUp CEO André Anthony

Art in Bloom: Inside the NCMA with Director Valerie Hillings

Visit Raleigh: An Insider's Guide with Jessica Holt

Navigating Perimenopause with Jamie Gallagher

Fitness for All: A Journey with Adrien and Meagan

Kickstart Your 2026 Financial Goals with Expert Tips from Joe Mecca

NC Travel from East to West

Navigating Perimenopause with Jamie Gallagher

The Science and Benefits of IV Hydration Therapy with Dr. Jonathan Leake

Irregardless: An Interview with Owner Lee Robinson

Torry Holt on Building Legacy On and Off the Field

Celebrating 50+ Years of 'A Christmas Carol' with Ira David Wood III & IV

Sweet Success: How India Matlock Built Asia's Cakes from Scratch

The Heartwarming Mission of Esteamed Coffee: An Interview with Julie Walker

Upcoming

The Greatest of All Time: Wake County’s Goats with Smith Farm Goat Sanctuary and Goats on the Go

Ghosts of the Triangle: Local Legends & Spooky Stories with Liz Pardue