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 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.

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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.

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

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. Palombo 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.

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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 at Ting Park. Michael explains the team’s summer-league model using college players from across the US, the vital host-family program, and his day-to-day focus on sponsorships, ticketing, and marketing within a small staff. They discuss making history with the Coastal Plain League’s first female player, catcher Alexa George, and how the organization builds fan connections through autographs, promotions, and player interaction. Michael shares career advice, the team’s refreshed brand identity, and what to expect at games — free parking, shaded seating, wide concourse, playground, and concessions — with tickets and schedules at salamandersbaseball.com.

00:00 Welcome to the Ballpark
01:33 Michael’s Baseball Journey
02:55 How Summer League Works
03:49 Recruiting Talent Nationwide
04:30 Host Family Program
06:51 GM Duties Behind the Scenes
09:34 Making League History
11:32 Building Fan Connections
13:26 Funniest On-Field Moment
15:06 What Makes a Great Player
15:27 Players Meet Fans
15:54 Entertainment Like Bananas
16:42 Career Advice Sports Jobs
18:44 Creating Memorable Moments
19:25 Team Vision And Rebrand
20:35 Ballpark Lightning Round
22:46 Tickets and Social Links
23:34 Bonus Fan Experience Tips
24:33 Family Friendly Ballpark Perks
26:52 Wrap Up for All Ages

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 discuss cosmetic options for aging, including Botox for expression lines, fillers for volume loss, and alternatives like microneedling and lasers to stimulate collagen, plus approaches to puffy under-eyes such as lymphatic massage and topical retinoids. Dr. Thomas Knackstedt warns that long multi-step teen routines can cause irritation and confusion about triggers. The conversation covers skin cancer risk factors, self-exams using ABCDE for melanoma, non-healing sores for basal/squamous cell cancers, and the need for timely dermatology access. A sunscreen roundup recommends SPF 30, applying last, reapplying about every two hours (especially with water/sweat), cautions about spray use and chemical sunscreens for kids, rejects “base tans,” and offers sunburn care tips like aloe, cool wraps, and staying out of the sun.

00:00 Summer Skincare Kickoff
01:25 Why Dermatology
03:02 Simple Routine Basics
04:11 Spots and Skin Cancer Ethics
05:38 Skin Reflects Health
06:56 Lifestyle Habits Matter
08:27 Drugstore vs. Luxury Products
10:37 Botox Basics Explained
14:26 Safety and Right Reasons
17:15 Fillers and Collagen Options
19:58 Microneedling and Lasers
21:03 Personal Concerns Puffy Eyes
21:30 Puffy Eyes Explained
22:27 Treatments and Realistic Results
23:51 Teen Skincare Routine Risks
25:54 Skin Cancer Screening Basics
28:23 Warning Signs to Check
30:11 Access to Dermatology Care
31:51 Sunscreen SPF and Layering
33:16 Reapply and Water Resistance
34:04 Sprays vs. Physical Sunscreens
35:43 Sunscreen Myths and Base Tan
38:24 Sunburn Aftercare and Wrap Up

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, and breaking into publishing after writing multiple manuscripts, signing with an agent, and winning a contest judged by a Penguin Random House editor. She shares how small towns and Beaufort inspire her settings, her no-outline writing process and deadline habits, and how her long-running Design Chic blog and social media helped her early book launches. She explains the Friends and Fiction community started during covid, and updates film/TV work including A Happier Life in development with Amazon and Peachtree Bluff previously sold to NBC. She previews the upcoming fifth Peachtree Bluff book, Falling for Peachtree Bluff, and answers lightning-round questions.

02:24 Meet Kristy Woodson Harvey
03:28 From Journalism to Fiction
05:27 Breaking into Publishing
08:46 Surprises and Author Advice
12:33 Beaufort and Small Town Magic
17:46 Building Worlds and Story Ideas
20:31 No Outlines Just Deadlines
22:49 Where She Writes Best
24:30 Social Media Before Books
25:19 Blog Longevity Reflections
25:59 Blogging to Book Buzz
27:59 Friends and Fiction Origins
30:41 Screen Adaptations Update
33:23 Exploring New Genres
34:39 Summer State of Mind Plot
37:04 Aunt Tilly Returns
37:46 Peachtree Bluff Book Five
40:55 Lightning Round Fun
44:55 Writing Journey Wisdom

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 nonprofit, 127 Haven. He explains 127 Haven’s James 1:27-inspired model in Uganda: rescuing orphaned children from the streets and raising them in permanent family homes with Ugandan parents and legal guardianship rather than operating an orphanage. Ryan recounts how relationships through African Children’s Choir connected him to Lynette, the home’s mother, and shares stories of rescued children now thriving. He discusses navigating local culture, government support, and ways to donate via 127haven.com, noting funds go directly to the family’s monthly needs.

00:00 Meet the Bagel Founder
02:08 Who Is Jeff
02:57 From Phone Repairs to Franchises
04:21 Why Bagels in Raleigh
05:18 Business Skills That Transfer
06:21 Favorite Bagel Orders
06:55 What Is 127 Haven
08:14 Building Families Not Orphanages
09:27 Why Uganda and Lynette
11:42 A Miracle Before the Trip
13:48 Growing the Home Model
16:17 Navigating Red Tape Abroad
17:28 Staying Humble and Safe
18:54 Why Uganda Matters
19:50 Making a Difference Starts Small
21:22 Ways to Get Involved
22:04 Gladys and the First Kids
24:41 Rethinking Orphanages as Family
28:25 Legacy and Ripple Effect
30:24 Whats Next for Bagel Run
31:36 How to Support 127 Haven
33:51 Closing Thanks and Bagel Banter

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 real estate business owner to a fitness entrepreneur, author, and podcast host. Learn about the importance of consistency, the mindset needed for long-term success, and how small, daily actions lead to significant progress. This episode is packed with insights on entrepreneurship, fitness, personal growth, and practical steps to unlock your full potential.

00:00 Meet Jody Donaldson
02:20 Many Hats and Origins
03:05 Why Fitness Franchise
04:09 Progress Zone Explained
06:13 Passion Into Business
07:09 Consistency Over Perfection
08:44 Common Progress Pitfalls
09:39 Alloy Training Model
13:06 Longevity Strength Focus
16:39 Motivation Versus Habits
18:00 Podcast Guests and Topics
20:04 Book Blueprint and First Step
22:45 Advice for Young Adults
26:04 Where to Find Jody
26:37 Final Thanks and Wrap Up

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 Tech, opened Swagger as a gift store in 2002, and expanded into clothing in 2011 after customer requests. She explains what boutique ownership is really like, including unexpected friendships and learning business without formal classes, with support from her husband. Mandy breaks down how and where she shops markets (Atlanta for gifts; Dallas and Vegas for clothing), how delivery timing affects buying, and how she forecasts trends while selecting for Swagger’s broad age range. She highlights upcoming trends like butter yellow, chocolate brown, polka dots, stripes, zebra, scarves, brooches, chunky jewelry, and outerwear, plus how social media and live selling shape the business.

00:00 Meet Mandy and Swagger
02:17 Origins and Early Inspiration
03:41 Engineer to Gift Shop Owner
04:29 Pivot to Clothing Boutique
05:40 Retail Realities and Relationships
07:34 How Fashion Markets Work
10:45 Trend Forecasting and Customer Fit
16:22 Spring Summer Trend Report
18:45 Easy Closet Refresh Tips
20:07 Color Analysis and Teen Feedback
22:03 Passing Down the Boutique
22:43 Who Picks Trend Colors
24:04 Fall Outerwear Forecast
25:21 Swagger Vibe in 3 Words
26:20 Confidence and Body Positivity
27:08 Social Media and Live Shopping
32:15 Five-Year Vision for Swagger
33:37 Lightning Round Favorites
35:52 Where to Shop and Follow
37:24 Final Thanks and Wrap Up

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, and refined it into three flavors, focusing on traditional Southern taste, Duke’s mayonnaise, and a spreadable, dense consistency. He describes early public tastings outside his Academy Street home, the strong festival response, and his move into an inspected commercial kitchen before officially selling. Frank discusses festival sales goals, local retailers and restaurants now carrying the product, ideas for serving pimento cheese, and future plans that may expand into Southern baked goods like chocolate and lemon meringue pies.

00:00 Meet Frankie B
02:08 Family Recipe Roots
03:57 From Sharing to Flavors
04:39 Festival Buzz Takes Off
07:26 Branding and What Makes It Different
09:25 Selling Out and Scaling Up
14:33 Going Legit Commercial Kitchen
16:16 Why Cary Owns Pimento Cheese
17:11 Downtown Cary Life Changes
19:16 Fencing In Privacy
20:02 Roots in Downtown Cary
21:04 Festival Crowds and Traffic
21:36 Judging Pimento Cheese
23:00 Duke's and Family Legacy
24:17 Best Ways to Eat It
27:33 Beyond Pimento Cheese
29:22 Growing Frankie B's
32:13 Where to Buy and Ship
33:29 Wrap Up and Thanks

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 a live stage/film project exploring Sgt. Pepper’s creative process. He reflects on the changing, overwhelmed modern media landscape and how artists are shaped by myth versus truth. Langstaff connects his conservation roots and time in New England wilderness to his debut novel “Sasq'et,” a cinematic, women-centered adventure using Sasquatch as a device to explore identity, nature, and unanswered questions, blending fiction with researched science and history. He shares how the book emerged nonlinearly while living in a remote Maine cabin and traveling cross-country with his dog, Kemo. “Sasq'et” releases April 7, with the audiobook as well.

00:00 Meet Maxim Langstaff
02:35 Behind the Music Legends
06:44 George Martin and Sgt. Pepper
09:57 Industry Then and Now
12:02 John Denver and Conservation
19:18 From Documentaries to Fiction
22:11 Truth Best Left Unknown
22:34 Writing Finds Its Path
23:34 A Woman’s Journey
24:13 Sasquatch as Metaphor
26:06 Belief Versus Science
28:45 Native Names and Origins
30:37 From Book to Screen
32:29 Craft of Storytelling
35:26 Release Date and Audiobook
36:46 Lightning Round Favorites
40:26 Casting and the Dog
43:23 Final Thanks and Farewell

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 running a beloved local hub in North Carolina. The couple recount their initial foray into card trading, their challenges of moving from a corporate job to entrepreneurship, and the tight-knit community they've built around their passion. Learn about the evolution of the trading card industry, their biggest finds, future aspirations, and the joy of bringing families together through this timeless hobby.

00:00 Meet the Card Pros
02:30 Adam’s First Packs
04:09 First Big Pull
05:56 From Passion to Business
08:06 Opening the First Store
09:28 Early Challenges and TCG Shift
10:54 Outgrowing the Space
14:04 How the Hobby Changed
16:38 Getting Started at the Shop
18:23 Avoiding Collector Burnout
19:27 Trading Online vs. In Store
20:01 Breakers and Live Auctions
20:48 The Shop Community Vibe
22:27 Biggest Collection Purchases
24:20 Babe Ruth Signed Baseball
25:58 Balancing Hobby and Business
27:35 Advice to Younger Self
28:48 Future Plans and Growth
29:59 Lightning Round Favorites
32:36 LEGO Collecting and Minimalism
33:59 Where to Find the Shop
35:01 Final Thanks and Wrap Up

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 game that captured hearts at the New York Toy Fair. Linda and Sue discuss the origins of their friendship, the challenges of manufacturing, securing spots in mom-and-pop stores, and navigating the complexities of the game industry. Don't miss their fascinating journey filled with highs, lows, and plenty of laughs as they bring their creative visions to life.

00:00 Meet the Inventors
02:48 From School Friends to Co-Founders
04:15 Fixing Liar's Dice
05:09 New Mechanics and Game Board
07:11 Learning Manufacturing from Scratch
08:17 Designers and Industry Help
10:19 Marketing and Grassroots Sales
13:32 New York Toy Fair Breakthrough
16:57 Working with a Friend
18:09 Shipping Delays and Tariffs
19:42 Canals and Shipping Chaos
20:16 Founders Backgrounds and Skills
21:36 Toy Fair to Warehousing
22:37 Box Size and Shelf Space
23:41 Next Game Spot and Snap
24:36 Trade Shows and Cutting Costs
26:03 Creative Process and Advice
27:45 Family Playtesting Support
28:49 Lightning Round Game Night
31:18 Where to Find Spot On
32:12 Shoutouts and Wrap Up

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, and supporting standout athlete Sarah Strong’s early recognition. Jason also reflects on Fuquay-Varina’s rapid growth, community events, new attractions, and excitement around the upcoming Target, and he plugs his Facebook page and newsletter with over 7,000 subscribers.

00:00 Meet Today in the Quay
02:59 Why He Started It
04:36 Fuquay Growth and Vibe
05:38 Courtroom vs. Facebook
06:58 Spotlight on Youth Sports
08:25 The Sarah Strong Story
14:52 Businesses and Local Buzz
17:04 Awards and Wide Reach
20:52 Balancing It All
22:32 Favorite Annual Events
23:51 24 Hours in Fuquay
25:46 Target and What’s Next
28:15 Where to Follow and Newsletter
29:26 Wrap Up and Thanks

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 Hurricanes siren guest (Sylvester Stallone), and how he describes the team’s passionate, unexpectedly electric fan base and playoff tailgating. Martinook talks about recharging off the ice with his wife and three kids, what he watches at home, and his love of restaurants, including favorites from Scott Crawford. He shares an ideal Raleigh food day, dream alternate careers, reality-show survival picks among teammates, perspectives on hockey fights and dental care, his walkout song choice, memorable moments at Lenovo Center, and a perfect family day in Raleigh.

01:01 Show Welcome and Setup
01:36 Rink Trip Introduction
02:19 Olympics Allegiances
03:43 Who Sounds the Siren
04:23 Canes Fans and Tailgates
05:37 Family Life Recharge
06:58 Kids' Movies and TV
08:34 Foodie Life at Home
09:30 Best Food Cities on the Road
11:05 Scott Crawford and Favorites
13:04 Perfect Raleigh Food Day
14:30 Dream Job and Reality TV
16:27 Fights and Dentist Talk
18:22 Walkout Song and Big Moments
20:03 Perfect Raleigh Family Day
21:02 Thanks and Sign Off

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 Palestinian heritage, artistic inclinations, and personal tragedies have shaped her entrepreneurial journey. From her start in a licensed home kitchen to the courage needed to open a storefront, Hanadi Asad shares insights on balancing family, overcoming fears, and bringing unique Mediterranean desserts to the community. She offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and reflects on the community's response to her endeavors. Don't miss this inspiring story of passion, resilience, and artistic innovation.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Sweet Episode
02:04 The Origin Story of Asali Desserts & Cafe
03:24 From Pharmaceuticals to Pastries: Hanadi's Journey
08:15 Challenges and Inspirations in Starting a Business
13:47 Balancing Family and Business
17:16 Family Background and Cultural Influences
17:19 Cultural Influence on Business
17:50 Creating a Welcoming Environment
20:02 Palestinian Desserts and Variations
21:49 Personal Favorites and Unique Twists
23:51 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
26:14 Reflections and Future Plans
27:28 Challenges and Resilience
31:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 the YMCA to leading a major community organization. André discusses NeighborUp's mission to support Western Wake County with financial aid, food assistance, job training, and advocacy. The episode delves into the merger process, the challenges, and the significant community impact that came from combining two long-standing nonprofits. André also shares heartfelt stories of how NeighborUp has positively affected individuals and families, offering a beacon of hope in times of need. Tune in to learn more about how you can get involved and support your community through NeighborUp.

00:00 Spotlight on Community Heroes
01:33 Meet Andre Anthony: CEO of Neighbor Up
02:54 Andre's Journey: From Immigrant Son to Nonprofit Leader
03:53 The Impact of Mentorship
06:38 Introduction to Dorcas Ministries
10:03 The Merger: Dorcas Ministries and Western Wake Crisis Ministry
12:13 Navigating the Merger Process
15:29 The Benefits of the Merger
19:33 Rebranding and Future Plans
20:21 The Dorcas Thrift Shop Legacy
21:08 Expanding Thrift Shop Operations
21:19 The Ministry Behind the Thrift Shop
22:31 The Origin of Dorcas
23:02 Impact Stories from Neighbor Up
27:06 How to Get Involved with Neighbor Up
31:56 A Day in the Life: Family Fun in Western Wake County
34:11 Where to Find More Information
34:43 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements

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, the integration of outdoor and indoor art spaces, and the unique cultural experiences offered by the museum. Valerie also discusses how the museum adapts to different seasons, collaborates with other institutions, and engages with the community. Discover what it takes to bring art to life and the future exhibitions you can't miss.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Background
00:21 Museum Dynamics and Building Names
00:49 Podcast Setup and Introduction
01:32 Introducing the North Carolina Museum of Art
02:41 Art in Bloom Exhibition
04:18 Valerie's Journey to Museum Directorship
11:04 Museum Operations and Community Engagement
13:30 Unique Aspects of the North Carolina Museum of Art
17:00 The Importance of Planning Your Museum Visit
17:40 The Perks of Local Museums
18:24 Introducing Art in Bloom
19:12 Challenges and Logistics of Art in Bloom
21:37 Themes and Inspirations for Art in Bloom
23:12 Collaborations and Special Events
29:33 Upcoming Exhibits and Events
32:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 the behind-the-scenes magic of promoting Raleigh to the world. Jessica shares insights on how Raleigh balances growth with preserving local flair; attracting visitors for leisure, business, and sports; and enhancing the local economy through tourism. Learn about Raleigh's upcoming events, its unique attractions, and discover hidden gems you might have missed. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this episode will give you plenty of reasons to fall in love with the City of Oaks.

00:00 Welcome to Raleigh: A Southern Gem
01:44 Meet Jessica Holt: Promoting Raleigh Worldwide
02:15 The Role of Visit Raleigh
02:42 Balancing Growth and Local Charm
03:32 Sports and Indoor Venues in Raleigh
04:21 Relocating to Raleigh: A Visitor's Journey
05:01 Raleigh's Unique Attractions and Free Offerings
06:11 Targeting Diverse Visitors
07:16 Music Festivals and Events in Raleigh
09:49 Economic Impact of Events
13:35 Raleigh's Food Scene: Michelin Guide Recognition
17:37 Recent Developments in Raleigh
19:58 Business Travelers in Raleigh
20:12 Pitching Raleigh to Different Audiences
21:36 Exciting Events in Raleigh
22:56 Tourism Developments and Challenges
27:20 International Tourism and Comparisons
30:05 Lightning Round: Raleigh Favorites
35:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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, and treatment options for perimenopause and menopause. The episode also covers the historical context behind hormone therapy, the importance of individualized care, and the latest insights into hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Tune in to learn valuable information about managing this crucial phase of women's lives.

00:00 Introduction to Women's Health Focus
01:52 Meet Jamie Gallagher: Perimenopause Specialist
02:38 Personal Journey and Professional Insights
04:12 Challenges in Menopause Care
04:55 Hormone Therapy Controversies
10:14 Heart Disease and Estrogen
16:07 Navigating Perimenopause Symptoms
22:40 Hormone Therapy and Alternatives
25:06 Debunking Hormone Therapy Myths
25:59 The Significance of Removing the Black Box Warning
26:26 The Impact of Hormone Therapy on Women's Health
27:23 The Importance of Shared Decision Making in Hormone Therapy
28:43 The Role of Hormone Therapy in Preventing Premature Death
29:22 Challenges in Hormone Therapy Education and Awareness
30:01 Audience Questions: Hormone Therapy Duration and Starting Age
32:37 Natural Supplements and Hormone Therapy
35:29 Understanding Menopausal Joint Pain
37:27 Addressing Menopausal Weight Gain
40:11 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions

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 AKtivate Fitness, the winners of Best Fitness Program in the 2025 Cary Magazine Maggy Awards. Located in Cary's Millpond Village, AKtivate Fitness is known for its welcoming community and innovative approach to helping people maintain their fitness resolutions long-term. Learn about their journey into the fitness world, the unique aspects that set their studio apart, and their commitment to mental and physical health. We also discuss their involvement in the Rock Steady Boxing program for individuals with Parkinson's disease and their new initiative, AKtivate Movement and Recovery. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or new to fitness, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration to help you achieve your fitness goals in 2025 and beyond.

00:00 Welcome and New Year's Resolutions
02:10 Meet the Fitness Experts: Adrian and Megan
02:41 Fitness Journeys: From Personal to Professional
05:53 Building a Fitness Community
07:17 The Rewards of Coaching
09:23 Challenges of Running a Fitness Business
14:59 Rock Steady Boxing: A Unique Approach to Parkinson's
19:43 Empowering Athletes: From 8 to 70 Members
20:34 The Importance of Strength Training
21:53 Kickboxing: A Comprehensive Workout
25:51 New Year, New Goals: Fitness Resolutions
29:06 Introducing Activate Movement and Recovery
32:12 The Vision for the Future
33:35 Conclusion: Reflecting on Success and Future Plans

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 fund, reassessing retirement plans, and paying down debt. Additionally, Joe discusses the importance of budgeting tools and how to use them effectively, from apps to good old spreadsheets. Tune in for actionable financial advice to ensure 2026 is the year your wallet breathes a sigh of relief.

00:00 Introduction to Financial Goals for 2026
01:18 Meet Joe Mecca: Financial Expert
02:01 Tip 1: The Importance of Budgeting
08:05 Tip 2: Building an Emergency Fund
11:42 Tip 3: Reassessing Retirement Plans
18:21 Tip 4: Implementing a Debt Reduction Plan
23:33 Tip 5: Rewarding Yourself for Financial Success
26:11 Conclusion: Wrapping up Financial Resolutions

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 Edenton’s preservation efforts, local attractions, and culinary delights. The episode also features a discussion with Lily Memmel, general manager of the West Jefferson Hotel, about the hotel's rich history, substantial renovations led by her father Mark Beck, and notable local activities including shopping, hiking, and river excursions. Both guests offer detailed travel tips and underscore the importance of preserving local history.

00:22 Exploring North Carolina's Hidden Gems
00:53 Discovering Edenton: A Historical Treasure
03:10 Edenton's Must-See Attractions
06:12 Edenton's Culinary Delights
13:12 West Jefferson: A Mountain Retreat
13:37 West Jefferson Hotel: A Historic Revival
17:14 Dining at the West Jefferson Hotel
20:16 Top Activities in West Jefferson
23:16 Summer Fun in West Jefferson
25:29 Conclusion and Farewell

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 and menopause. The episode also covers the historical context behind hormone therapy, the importance of individualized care, and the latest insights into hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Tune in to learn valuable information about managing this crucial phase of women's lives.

00:00 Introduction to Women's Health Focus
01:11 Meet Jamie Gallagher: Perimenopause Specialist
01:57 Personal Journey and Professional Insights
03:27 Challenges in Menopause Care
04:14 Hormone Therapy Controversies
09:47 Heart Disease and Estrogen
15:53 Navigating Perimenopause Symptoms
23:21 Hormone Replacement Therapy Explained
25:22 Comparing Birth Control and HRT
25:42 The Importance of Continuous HRT
26:40 The Black Box Warning on HRT
27:14 The Impact of Estrogen on Women's Health
29:24 Challenges in Hormone Therapy Education
30:42 Addressing Common Questions on HRT
33:18 Natural Supplements and Hormone Therapy
36:10 Menopause and Joint Pain
38:08 Weight Gain During Menopause
40:45 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions

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 a board-certified emergency medicine physician to founding a successful chain of hydration clinics. Learn about the different types of IV drips, their benefits for athletes, those with chronic illnesses, and even the hungover. We also discuss cutting-edge treatments like NAD+ therapy and the importance of choosing a well-regulated clinic. Join us for a comprehensive look at how IV hydration therapy is transforming health and wellness.

00:00 Introduction to Germ Season and IV Hydration Therapy
01:50 Meet Dr. Jonathan Leake: From ER to IV Hydration
02:41 The Birth and Growth of Hydrate Medical
04:17 Experiencing IV Hydration: A Personal Account
05:34 Understanding IV Hydration Therapy
07:39 NAD+ Treatment: The Anti-Aging Miracle
08:35 Customizing Your IV Drip for Maximum Benefits
10:04 IV Hydration for Athletes and Hangover Recovery
14:42 Immediate and Long-Term Benefits of IV Hydration
16:17 IV Hydration for Chronic Illness and Migraines
17:37 Misconceptions About IV Hydration Therapy
18:04 Safety and Standards in IV Hydration
18:38 Benefits of IV Hydration
18:58 Who Should Avoid IV Hydration?
19:31 Designing a Signature Drip
20:21 Unusual Requests from Clients
21:39 Balancing Medicine and Business
25:08 Future Goals and Expansion
26:07 Flying and Personal Interests
27:37 Where to Learn More About Hydrate Medical

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 beginnings as the first vegetarian restaurant in Raleigh to its evolution over five decades. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of running a restaurant that prioritizes vegetarian and vegan options while still appealing to a broad audience. Lee also discusses the importance of community support, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how the live music tradition continues to thrive. Don't miss this insightful conversation about a Raleigh institution that has stood the test of time.

00:00 Introduction to a Raleigh Icon
01:54 The Origins of Irregardless Cafe
03:19 Arthur's Vision and Evolution
04:41 Challenges and Changes Over the Years
07:55 Lee Robinson's Journey to Ownership
10:38 Maintaining Traditions and Facing Modern Challenges
17:33 Nostalgia and Budget Constraints in Music
19:26 Menu Staples and Customer Favorites
20:43 Community Support and Resilience
22:22 Challenges of Starting a Restaurant Today
25:13 Farm-to-Table Practices and Market Realities
28:08 Balancing Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Offerings
31:13 The Popular Lemon Tahini Dressing
32:16 Conclusion and Future Hopes

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 work and the impactful projects of the Holt Brothers Foundation, with a particular focus on supporting children whose parent or guardian has been diagnosed with cancer. Torry shares emotional insights about his personal journey, the importance of education, and the legacy of his mother. Learn how this foundation is bringing hope and making a difference in the lives of many families.

00:00 Introduction to What's Up, Wake
00:43 Interview with NC State Legend Torry Holt
06:09 Torry Holt's Community Work and Foundation
08:06 Supporting Children Through Cancer
19:26 Introduction to the Foundation's Components
21:34 Kids Can Program and New Initiatives
21:59 The Impact of 'A Kids Book About Cancer'
24:09 How to Support the Foundation
25:32 Navigating Conversations About Cancer
28:04 Personal Reflections and Advice
29:41 Getting Involved with the Holt Brothers Foundation
32:45 Family Values and Legacy
36:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 that has delighted North Carolina audiences for over 50 years. The Woods share anecdotes about the origins of the theater, the heartfelt impact of the show, the camaraderie among the cast, and the trials and joys of playing Scrooge across multiple generations. This episode offers a heartfelt and humorous look into a holiday tradition that has touched countless lives.

00:00 Welcome to the Holiday Season
01:25 Meet the Royal Family of Raleigh Theater
02:25 The Beginnings of Theatre in the Park
04:34 The Birth of A Christmas Carol Tradition
09:19 A Family Legacy Continues
14:58 Passing the Torch
18:38 The Magic of the Lamplighter
26:01 The Annual Transformation
27:13 Keeping the Show Fresh
27:45 The Power of Laughter and Unity
29:27 Reflecting on Personal Loss
31:21 The Joy of Character Acting
33:52 Theatre in the Park and Future Plans
37:24 Family Legacy and Community Impact
41:34 Lightning Round: Bah Humbug Edition
46:22 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

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 she transitioned from a hairstyling career to owning a successful dessert shop. We delve into the challenges and joys of running a family business, the community-driven ethos of Asia's Cakes, and managing the work-life balance with her entrepreneurial husband. Along the way, we learn about customer favorites, including the beloved Honey Bun Cake and the unique Banana Pudding Cheesecake. Join us for an inspiring conversation about passion, family, and the sweet rewards of hard work.

00:00 Introduction to India Matlock and Asia's Cakes
01:29 India's Family and Baking Roots
03:51 From Hair School to Baking Passion
04:56 Entrepreneurial Journey and Family Support
07:51 The Birth of Asia's Cakes
10:52 Finding the Perfect Bakery Location
14:33 Managing High Demand and Teamwork
16:08 The Importance of Teamwork in Baking
18:02 A Day in the Life of a Baker
20:26 The Honey Bun Cake: A Family Tradition
22:50 Balancing Business and Family
27:51 Favorite Treats and Special Recipes
29:44 Challenges and Unique Requests
31:34 Training the Next Generation of Bakers
33:06 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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 disabilities, the shop has become an integral part of the community. The host interviews Executive Director Julie Walker, discussing the shop's origins, its evolution since 2020, and the impactful lives of its employees. They also touch upon future expansion plans and community involvement opportunities. Julie shares inspiring stories of employee success and the invaluable support they receive from the local community.

00:00 Introduction to Esteamed Coffee
01:22 Meet Julie Walker, Executive Director
01:47 The Mission and Founding Story
03:45 Julie Walker's Journey to Esteemed
04:32 Day-to-Day Operations and Responsibilities
05:49 Hiring Process and Employee Retention
08:21 Employee Success Stories
09:57 Molly Minnick and the Elevate Program
21:25 Future Plans and Expansion
24:32 How to Get Involved and Volunteer
26:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts