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Explore every episode of the podcast This is Raleigh Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for This is Raleigh Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–50 of 60

TitlePub. DateDuration
EP 60: Raleigh Real Estate 4th Quarter Update05 Nov 202400:31:11

In this episode we chat about the current Raleigh real estate market in November, 2024, with our realtor partner, Chuck Belden, a local full-service and client-centered realtor. Chuck shares valuable insights into the current state of the Raleigh market for the first quarter and looking ahead, including:

  • Is it a buyers or sellers market?
  • Current inventory for sale (supply & demand)
  • Are prices rising, stabilizing, or declining?
  • Average time on market?
  • Current average home price in Raleigh
  • Current interest rates and their impact
  • What factors are driving the Raleigh real estate market right now?
  • Good value neighborhoods
  • Advice for buyers and sellers
  • Due dilligence fee trends
  • Emerging trends
  • And much more!

RESOURCES:

EP 59: Raleigh Real Estate Market Update (May 2024)15 May 202401:17:27

In this episode we chat about the current Raleigh real estate market with our realtor partner, Chuck Belden, a local full-service and client-centered realtor. Chuck shares valuable insights into the current state of the Raleigh market for the first quarter and looking ahead, including:

  • Is it a buyers or sellers market?
  • Current inventory for sale (supply & demand)
  • Are prices rising, stabilizing, or declining?
  • Average time on market?
  • Current average home price in Raleigh
  • Current interest rates and their impact
  • What factors are driving the Raleigh real estate market right now?
  • Good value neighborhoods
  • Advice for buyers and sellers
  • Due dilligence fee trends
  • Emerging trends
  • And much more!

RESOURCES:

EP 50: Brandon McCraney, Founder of Olde Raleigh Distillery09 Mar 202300:58:19

Brandon McCraney is the owner, operator, and master blender at Olde Raleigh Distillery in Zebulon with a focus on the art of blending and distilling spirits, and he's been on a mission to make damn good whiskey since its establishment in 2017.

In this episode Brandon shares the differences between whiskey and bourbon, the many challenges he faced getting off the ground, the process of blending, what makes Olde Raleigh different from other distilleries, why he chose Zebulon and the community response, and much more!

 

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Bourbon vs Whiskey
  • Challenges he faced getting the distillery off the ground
  • How his military background helped him stay the course.
  • The process of blending spirits
  • How to know what flavor profiles go well together.
  • Where he sources his barrels, and why they are important.
  • What makes Olde Raleigh different from other distilleries!
  • How to taste test bourbon
  • Different ways to drink it.
  • Why he opened in Zebulon, and the community response.
  • The different aspects of his distillery and what you can do there.
  • And much more!
REOURCES:

EP 49: International Flights from Raleigh Durham Airport14 Feb 202301:00:10

We love our local Raleigh Durham Airport (RDU) for many reasons, and in this episode, we discuss international flight options from RDU as well as tips for parking, eating, and getting to RDU. 

Plus, we share our personal experiences of flying to London, Dublin, and The Bahamas from RDU, why it might be best sometimes to drive to Charlotte for international flights, plus other important flying and travel tips!

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Why we love Raleigh Durham Airport
  • Raleigh vs. Charlotte Airport
  • International flight options from Raleigh
  • Parking at RDU
  • Food at RDU
  • Why driving to Charlotte could save you money flying overseas
  • Our trips to LondonIreland, and The Bahamas
  • Tips for booking flights
RESOURCES:

 

Full show notes: 

EP 48: Health and Wellness Companies we Use and Love in Raleigh31 Jan 202300:49:20

We prescribe to the notion that “prevention is better than cure” when it comes to health and wellness, and in this episode, we share local businesses in the Raleigh area that we personally use for various health and wellness needs and the services they offer.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Our health history
  • Chiropractic
  • Reiki
  • Our gyms
  • Infrared sauna
  • Blue Water medical spa
  • Where I purchase my grass-fed meat
RESOURCES:
EP 47: What's ahead for 2023?20 Jan 202300:50:55

We are back Raleigh! Back on the podcast for the new year ahead. 

We've listened to the feedback and suggestions of over 400 people who completed our annual survey. It was so helpful and important for planning our 2023 year of Raleigh content. 

In this episode we chat about what we see ahead for 2023 in Raleigh, based upon the survey results. We share our business plans, life goals, and of course our travel plans. 

Let's do this 2023! 

We'd love to hear your goals for 2023 in the comments!

Full show notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/podcast-whats-ahead-for-2023/

46: What's it like to live in Boylan Heights, Raleigh?21 Oct 202200:24:30

The Boylan Heights neighborhood in Raleigh is one of our favorites!

It's hard to beat location - on the edge of Downtown Raleigh and next door to Pullen Park - plus Charming Southern homes and small neighborly feel makes it an ideal place to live in Raleigh.

It's also a great place for anybody to grab a coffee from Rebus Works, some pastries from Boulted Bread, a craft brew from Vaulted Craft Brew, and lunch/dinner from Wye Hill!

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT
  • Our new series on the blog creating neighborhood guides (includes video and podcasts)
  • Where Boylan Heights is located
  • What makes Boylan Heights a unique and wonderful place to live
  • A little about the style of homes in Boylan Heights
  • Sunrise and sunset at the iconic Boylan Bridge
  • The artistic vibe of Boylan Heights with its annual Art Walk and galleries
  • It’s proximity to Pullen Park, Dorothea Dix Park, the Warehouse District and Glenwood Ave
  • Some cool neighborhood bars, cafes and restaurants
RESOURCES

If you're looking to move to the Raleigh area, we can help you with a realtor and settling into community. Reach out here. https://thisisraleigh.com/finding-a-realtor-raleigh-nc/

 

Full guide to Boylan Heights neighborhood in Raleigh: https://thisisraleigh.com/boylan-heights-raleigh/

EP 45: What to Do in Raleigh in the Fall07 Sep 202200:38:00

It's almost Fall, y'all, our favorite time of year. It's the time of fun festivals, leaf peeping, patio dining, picnics, trails to hike, pumpkin flavored everything and Halloween fun. In this episode we chat about the best things to do in Raleigh in Fall. 

What we talked about:

  • When is Fall in Raleigh?
  • Best places in Raleigh to see Fall colors
  • Greenway trails and lakes we love
  • Picnic spots in the Fall
  • Cafes and bars for Fall seasonal treats
  • Festivals & events in Fall
  • Halloween fun and house decorations
  • Why the beach is great during September! 
  • Tips for going to the mountains!

Resources mentioned:

Full guide: https://thisisraleigh.com/things-to-do-in-raleigh-in-the-fall/

EP 44: Getting to Know Raleigh (for first time visitors or relocators)26 Aug 202200:43:03

If you are visiting Raleigh for the first time, let us be your personal chaperone. 

Listen in as we share all the experiences you'd have, and the places we'd take you to get to know all about the city of Raleigh including neighborhoods, restaurants, festivals, sporting events, parks, trails, breweries and much more! 

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Best neighborhoods to explore
  • Places to eat & drink
  • Trails to walk
  • Parks to visit
  • Lakes to explore
  • Festivals to attend
  • Sports to go watch
  • And other uniquely Raleigh experiences
RESOURCES:

 

Full guide: https://thisisraleigh.com/city-of-raleigh-nc/

Raleigh Realtor: https://thisisraleigh.com/finding-a-realtor-raleigh-nc/

43: 3 Great Theme Parks near Raleigh, NC17 Aug 202200:27:23

You don't have to travel all the way to Florida from Raleigh to get your thrills and spills at theme parks. In this episode we share three great theme parks near Raleigh for riding big roller coasters, water slides and creating family memories.

We're traveling to Carowinds near Charlotte, Wet & Wild in Greensboro and Busch Gardens in Virginia.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

 

  • Carowinds Amusement Park in Charlotte, NC
  • How to get there, why we loved Carowinds, rides we loved most, ticket optioBusch ns, we to stay, and much more!
  • Wet n’ Wild Waterpark in Greensboro, NC
  • Why our kids loved Wet n’ Wild, getting there, why renting a cabana is a good idea, how to plan your day and much more!
  • Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA. All the fun we had riding the roller coasters, exploring the European landscaped villages, and the fun activities for young kids.
RESOURCES:

Full Show Notes:

EP 42: Well Centered Wellness with Dr. Allison Peters12 Aug 202201:28:36
In this episode we chat with the founder of Well Centered Wellness in Apex,  Dr. Allison Puja Peters, and why our own family has been going to see her for years now for various health treatments and preventative care. She specializes in many areas of wellness including chiropractic, Ozone therapy, PEMF sound technology, Brain Tap, Red Light Therapy, Infrared laser, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Genetic Based Nutrition, CBD & Hemp.    Listen in for some great insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health.

 

Full show notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/dr-allison-peters-wellness/

49: Raleigh Summer Bucket List05 Aug 202200:37:43

It is hot out there y’all, but we do love a Raleigh summer and embracing all the fun things to do at this time of year.

In this episode, we chat about a fun list of activities and events to help cool you down and enjoy the beautiful weather!

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

  • Awesome places to go Paddle boarding & kayaking in Raleigh
  • Places in Raleigh to swim
  • Hiking trails
  • Breweries with beer gardens
  • Picnic spots
  • Sunset spots
  • Museums
  • Durham Bulls
  • Rooftop bars
  • Pullen Park
  • Concerts & Festivals
  • Women's soccer
  • Trampoline park
  • Outdoor movies
  • Sunflower fields
  • Indoor rock climbing
  • Volunteering

Resources:

Full show notes:35+ things to do for your Raleigh summer bucket list 

EP 58: Influencer Marketing (14 years of Tips & Lessons)17 Apr 202401:31:01

In this episode we share 14 years of tips and lessons as "Influencers" and content creators. We have partnered with some of the biggest brands in the world such as American Express, Qantas, Canon, Ford, and destinations like Visit California, Visit Florida, and Tourism Singapore.

Our experience is spread over several platformas such as blogging, Facebook, Instagram and podcasting. If you're a brand looking to hire influencers, we have helpful insights for you. And if you're an influencer looking to build a business, we have been there and done that and have many tips to share! 

RESOURCES:

 

 

: Cary Heise, founder of Designed For Joy26 Jul 202201:01:35

Cary, and her partner Kristen Sydow, are amazing. @DesignedForJoy in downtown Raleigh provides women in crisis (those living at high risk for sex and labor trafficking and/or food and housing insecurities) with stability through immediate employment (a living wage) and support, removing the stigma of vulnerability.

This is an inspiring story of women helping women. Cary shares all about how Designed For Joy came about, what women they can help, how they help them, why she wanted to serve women, where you can purchase their beautiful products, how you can volunteer for them, and so much more!   WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • How Cary got started in mission work and the non-profit space
  • What is Designed For Joy and how did it start?
  • How they help women
  • How did she set up Designed for Joy
  • Why she calls herself a visionary
  • Why she wanted to serve women in this way
  • Her background and where she grew up
  • Getting her start in Costa Rica
  • How the process works with Designed for Joy
  • How long they work with each woman
  • How the Raleigh community can support Designed For Joy
  • Where you can purchase their products
  • Pop up porch parties
  • How to volunteer at Designed For Joy
  • Her favorite things to do in Raleigh
  • What does Joy mean
  • Her favorite Margarita spot in Raleigh and other Raleigh faves
RESOURCE LINKS:
39. Second quarter Raleigh wrap up15 Jul 202200:52:36

Half the year gone again! Each quarter we record a wrap on what we've been doing in Raleigh, new fun finds, any important news and what's coming up for third quarter! 

In this second quarter wrap for 2022, we talk about cool beaches near Raleigh, a great new camping lakeside camping location we discovered, some fun festivals and events, and being Raleigh real estate agents! 

We also introduce a new Australian word!

 

Full show notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/podcast-39-second-quarter-raleigh-wrap-up/

38: Cool things to do in Durham, NC15 Jul 202200:40:29

Only 30 minutes up the road from Raleigh is Durham, named the "tastiest town in the South". Durham is also famous for Duke University and Durham Bulls' baseball. We also love the inclusive, entrepreneurial spirit of Durham.

We chat about our recent staycation in Durham with our top recommendations on things to do - even if just on a one day trip! 

We explore art, culture, and of course food and drink! Cool wine bars and frozen custard ahead.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Why Durham makes for a great day trip from Raleigh (or staycation)
  • What Durham is known for
  • Cool places to eat and drink
  • Top activities to do in Durham
  • Fun things to do with kids
  • And much more!
RESOURCE LINKS:

More: Read our 48 hour guide to Durham, NC

37: Best Beaches near Raleigh (less than 3 hour drive)24 Jun 202200:40:42

One of the great things about living in Raleigh is not being too far from the North Carolina Coast. In this podcast we share some of our favorite beaches near Raleigh. We discuss their different personalities, what we love about them, and some standout things to do and see in each one. 

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • What beaches makes for a great getaway from Raleigh
  • Highlights of each beach town
RESOURCE LINKS:

Read more: 12 great beaches near Raleigh https://thisisraleigh.com/beaches-near-raleigh/

36: Looking for Raleigh Real Estate Agents? We can help!15 Jun 202200:43:22
In this episode we talk about our new Raleigh real estate business, how we can connect you to awesome realtors, a mortgage broker, and experts in all areas of moving to Raleigh.    This is Raleigh podcast is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace
35. Marcus Ginyard (former UNC Basketball Captain)26 May 202201:37:53

Marcus Ginyard graduated from UNC in 2010 with all the basketball accolades you can imagine including NCAA champion, team captain, defensive player of the year, and All-ACC defense. After a 12-year career playing overseas in various countries - Poland, France, Ukraine to name a few - Marcus is back in the Triangle and starting his second career with Medalist Capital. Tune in to find out what his time at UNC was like, playing professionally overseas, what's going on with his next chapter, and so much more!

 

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Meeting Marcus in 2008 at a UNC fans day
  • Where he grew up and went to high school, when he started playing basketball
  • Impact of his older brother as his assistant coach in high school
  • When he knew he wanted to play at UNC, and how he got recruited
  • Other schools he was interested in playing for
  • Why he chose UNC and his thought process
  • What it was like playing at UNC
  • Coach Roy Willams’s influence on his game, and how he still supports him through life
  • What Roy is like as a person away from the game
  • College life away from the basketball court
  • How he dealt with the pressure of being a student athlete plus studying, and the support system in place at UNC
  • How they prepared for a game
  • The transition from high school to college basketball
  • Impact and influence and support of his parents in his success
  • Listening to his intuition, and why he practices meditation
  • Why it’s important to make your bed everyday (even in a hotel room)
  • What it was like captaining the team (and the challenge of 2010 season)
  • What he learnt about himself through his injuries
  • Winning the defensive player of the year and all ACC defensive team
  • The toughest player he had to guard in college
  • The experience of playing in Europe
  • Favorite country he lived in Europe
  • Travel experiences in Europe
  • Difference between Europe and USA basketball
  • Dealing with the business side of basketball
  • Difference between pro and college basketball
  • The most transformative experience he had in his life
  • How he disconnects and stays grounded
  • His travel tip for getting from Raleigh to France
  • What he is doing now in business and life
  • His biggest challenge coming back to the USA
  • What he loves about being back in the Triangle region
  • What makes the Carolina family special
  • Living with Danny Green on campus
  • Our frat party experience
  • Why Cameron Indoor is NOT the toughest place to play!
  • The famous Danny Green dunk at Duke
  • Where he was during this years epic Final 4 vs Duke
  • Where he takes friends for breakfast, lunch and dinner in The Triangle
  • What he thinks about Australia
RESOURCES:

 

34. Zack Johnson, Empire Agency and Girls Night Out15 May 202200:41:58

When Raleigh native Zack Johnson (Leesville High School) was playing drums in shows throughout the Carolinas, he was always the business guy - the one who didn't want to  just jam out, but he also wanted to figure out how to build a music empire.  After touring with acts like Afroman and ending up in Los Angeles, he started Empire Agency, which represents musicians and athletes.  In 2020, Zack and his growing family came back home, and he's now helping local musicians take their genius to the next level.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Where he grew up and went to school.
  • How he got into what he’s doing now.
  • Who is the The Empire Agency and what they do!
  • What brought him back to Raleigh from LA.
  • How he would describe the Entertainment industry here in Raleigh. 
  • The “Girls Night Out” Concert?
  • His favorite Raleigh spots.
  • Favorite getaway spot in NC.
  • And much more!
RESOURCES:

 

33. Raleigh vs London11 May 202200:43:56

The This is Raleigh family visited London recently and loved every minute of it. Today they give their London travel tips and compare the City of Royals to the City of Oaks.

 

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Our London story
  • Size or Raleigh vs London
  • Public transport comparison
  • Beer culture
  • Coffee scene
  • Museums in each city
  • Hospitality and service differences (NO tipping)
  • Weather
  • Parks
  • History of each city
  • Why Raleigh needs a river!
  • Flights from Raleigh
  • Personality of British vs American
  • Different saying in each country
  • And much more!
RESOURCES:
32. Slice Pie Company's Kristen Mullins "The Pie Lady"21 Apr 202200:52:43

Raleigh native Kristen Mullins comes on to tell us how she and her dad made (baked?) the idea for Slice Pie Company, the company's expansion, the most popular sellers, and what makes Raleigh so special.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT
  • Where she grew up and went to school.
  • How she go into what she’s doing now.
  • What was it like baking with your dad.
  • How the Slice of Pie company came about.
  • Her “WHY” for doing what she does now.
  • Failures and successes along the way.
  • Thoughts on leaving corporate life.
  • The many different pies she makes.
  • Awards won.
  • Most popular pie she sells.
  • Her favorite pie.
  • Why is it so difficult to make GOOD pies.
  • Best thing about running her business.
  • Her new location.
  • And much more.
RESOURCES
  • Slice Pie Company
  • Pick up a pie at Slice’s new location, 1400 S. Saunders St. Raleigh.

Pick up a pie at Slice's new location, 1400 S. Saunders St. Raleigh, NC 27603.

31. Our 2022 Q1 Review04 Apr 202200:44:44

The first quarter of 2022 has absolutely flown by! Today we talk about some of the amazing experiences we've had in Raleigh and throughout North Carolina, and what's ahead for the rest of the year!

This is Raleigh is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace, and is produced by Earfluence.

EP 57: Biltmore Estate & London (travel tips)10 Apr 202401:02:26

We love to travel and sharing our tips. After visiting 50+ countries and living in 5 countries, we have lots to share from domestic getaways from Raleigh, to internatinal trips. 

In this episode we are chatting about one local and one international destination; Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, and London in the UK! What to see, do, eat and where to stay in each destination, how to get there, getting around tips and much more! 

RESOURCES:

Biltmore Estate:

London:

 

 

 

 

 

30. Kiara and Terrance Ruth15 Mar 202201:00:26
Dr. Terrance Ruth may be the next mayor of Raleigh. Kiara Ruth is an influencer and blogger at The Banana Moon. Together, they're a Raleigh power couple, and they share their story on today's episode. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Their backgrounds
  • Story of how they met
  • First impressions of Raleigh?
  • How they describe the community here in Raleigh 
  • Why Terrance is running to become the mayor
  • Terrance’s key campaign messages
  • Kiara’s online business and her work in the community
  • How she describes the female entrepreneur community in Raleigh
  • How they describe each other’s personality in 3 words
  • What was important to you as parents in deciding where to send their son to school?  
  • Their favorite things to do in Raleigh
  • And so much more…
RESOURCE LINKS:

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

 

29. eSports scene in the Triangle, with Caleb Smith25 Feb 202200:56:42

Did you know that there's a huge eSports scene here in the Triangle? Today we chat with Caleb Smith, owner of Contender eSports Gaming Center about what eSports is all about, the money that's available, and how his team is training the job force of the future.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • What is Esports?
  • The story of Contender Esports in Cary
  • Who can go to Contender Esports?
  • What types of games can you play?
  • What is the number one Esport game?
  • Workshops, tournaments and camps
  • How big is the gaming industry in the Triangle?
  • Can people make a career out of Esports?
  • Who is one of the biggest names in Esports?
  • Which country is best at Esports?
  • What are some of the top tournaments?
  • What should you study if you want a career in gaming?
  • What values and purpose do you encourage at Contender Esports?
  • What is your long-term vision and mission for your business?
RESOURCE LINKS:

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

 

28. OBX in the Winter: Still so much to do18 Feb 202200:42:25

We took another beach vacation in the winter, this time to the Outer Banks (Nags Head, Manteo, Kitty Hawk, Duck, Corolla). There's so much culture and history, and here we tell you about all the things to do when the weather isn't right for a dip in the ocean.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Why visit the Outer Banks in winter
  • Getting there from Raleigh
  • Our vacation rental in Nags Head
  • Historic walking tour of Manteo
  • Wright Brothers Memorial
  • Fort Raleigh
  • Bodie Island Lighthouse at sunset
  • Bird watching in Alligator River Natural Preserve
  • Sunrise on the beach
  • Places to eat and drink in OBX
RESOURCE LINKS:
27. Navigating the Wake County Schools System, with Libby Taylor10 Feb 202200:56:44

The Wake County School System is massive and sometimes pretty confusing to navigate. There are traditional or year-round schools, magnet schools, charter schools, private schools. You always want to choose what's best for your kids, but how do you find all the right information?  Today we're joined by Libby Taylor from SchoolUp Wake, who saw many parents were strugglling with their school choice and found a way to help them.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:
  • Do Wake County Schools rank highly?
  • How do you find out your base school?
  • How do you enroll in your base school? Any deadlines?
  • Do they have open houses, virtual information sessions?
  • Year round vs. Traditional calendar
  • How do I find out what calendar my base school is on?
  • What is a capped school?
  • How do I know if my base school is capped?
  • What are overflow schools?
  • How do you know what overflow school you would be assigned?
  • Can you get on a waiting list at a capped school?
  • What is a Magnet school?
  • Do they offer different curriculum & focus to public schools? 
  • Who can go to a magnet school?
  • What is a Charter school?
  • Who can attend a charter school?
  • Do they follow same rules as public?
  • Do they take state mandated tests?
  • How do I enroll, what is the application process?
  • Can my child enroll if the charter school is not located in the district where I live?
  • What is the main difference between private & public schools?
  • 1-2 top reasons parents choose a private school?
  • Do costs vary? 
  • Typical application process?
  • How to start the school research process
  • What resources are available online to compare schools?
  • School report cards
  • How can parents work with Libby to choose a school?

Are you looking to buy or sell a home and are in needed of a real estate agent in the Raleigh area? As a Licensed Realtor and referral agent, I can save you the time and stress searching and vetting, and connect you to my team of trusted Realtor partners. Read more here, or click the link below

Click here to get started RESOURCE LINKS:

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

 

26. Crystal Coast Winter Beach Getaway03 Feb 202200:41:22

Most people don't think about the beach for a winter weekend getaway or vacation, but it's actually pretty amazing. There are so many things to do...and it's not nearly as crowded. Today we talk about our trip to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina - Beaufort, Indian Beach, Pine Knoll Shores, Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, and Emerald Isle.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:
  • Exploring Beaufort on a self-guided walking tour
  • Collecting shells and wild horses on Cape Lookout National Seashore
  • Fort Macon State Park
  • Getting spooked on a ghost tour of Beaufort
  • Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
  • Pirate artifacts at the NC Maritime Museum
  • Learning about whales at Bonehenge Whale Center
  • Places to eat
  • Our awesome condo stay
RESOURCE LINKS:

Check out our blog post on the Crystal Coast things to do and places to eat!

 

EP 25: Plans for 2022 in Business & Life25 Jan 202200:50:11

Are you ready for an excellent 2022? It's about time right?

In this episode we chat about our plans for 2022 related to our ThisIsRaleigh podcast, our blog, social media channels, plus plans for our community, travel plans we have both domestically and internationally, personal life updates, and much more!

24. Say Goodbye to Clutter, with Hello Clutter's Sarah Valeri05 Jan 202201:05:26

If there's one thing that can cause overwhelm, overstimulation, and stress in a household, it's clutter. Sarah Valeri from Hello Clutter has made it her business to make homes better organized, less stressful, and clutter free, and she joins us today on the This is Raleigh Podcast!

 

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:

Why Sarah started her declutter business

  • What is clutter? And what does it mean?
  • How does clutter affect us mentally and financially?
  • Examples of clutter
  • Living with a partner with a different clutter threshold
  • Why people rage donate
  • Why people hold onto stuff
  • Common items people tend to over accumulate
  • The crazy % of clothes people wear that they own
  • How to organize your kids stuff
  • Rules for buying clothes
  • Why more stuff doesn’t make us happy!
  • Why online shopping has increased hoarding clothes
  • Tips for getting started with decluttering
  • How Sarah can help you!
  • Sarah’s free decluttering checklist
  • Sarah’s new year challenge! 
  • Her favorite things to do in Raleigh
RESOURCE LINKS:

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

 

23. Financing a Home with Mortgage Broker, April Blackwell15 Dec 202101:03:59

The housing market in Raleigh right now is ridiculous - mortgage rates are low, prices are sky-high, and supply can't keep up with demand.  So when you put in an offer to buy, you better be prepared.

Today, we welcome our mortgage broker, April Young Blackwell from Blackwell Mortgage, to give us some tips on how to navigate this wild time in the Triangle.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:
  • How she got into the financial industry, and her experience
  • Who she can help get financing for a home
  • The difference between today’s market and the disaster of 2008
  • Why new construction is now taking up to 8-9 months
  • You have to be ready and willing to act quickly 
  • Looking for diamonds in the rough is a good strategy
  • Why Raleigh is on all the top lists
  • How to rebuild credit, use it responsibly, and monitor it.
  • Quickest way to improve your credit score
  • Understanding utilization of credit
  • Good and bad lines of credit to have open
  • Why only banking with local banks or credit unions can hurt your credit standing
  • Where to get credit education and resources
  • What loans are available for 1st time home buyers
  • How much deposit you need to put down 
  • What is an FHA loan
  • What is PMI, and how to avoid it
  • Saving for a deposit vs. paying off bad debt
  • Creative ways to make more money
  • How to know how much you can afford
  • Understanding Due Diligence (DD) money and how to play the game
  • Why you need to get pre-approved (and what it means)
  • Rules around Flips a buyer has to be aware of
  • Checklist: steps to get ready to buy a home
  • Number 1 mistake home-buyers make!

Are you looking to buy or sell a home and are in needed of a real estate agent in the Raleigh area? As a Licensed Realtor and referral agent, I can save you the time and stress searching and vetting, and connect you to my team of trusted Realtor partners. Read more here, or click the link below

Click here to get started RESOURCE LINKS:

 

22. Visiting Boone, Grandfather Mountain, and Blowing Rock08 Dec 202100:39:23

Today we are talking about Boone, North Carolina, just three hours from Raleigh. Boone is right off the Blue Ridge Parkway in the High Country of NC, and close enough to Blowing Rock and Grandfather Mountain that we went there too. Hear about it all on today's episode!

 

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:
  • Exploring Blowing Rock on the way to Boone
  • Our cabin stay in Boone
  • Coffee shops in Boone
  • Breweries in Boone
  • Where to eat in Boone
  • Hiking and waterfalls near Boone
  • Riding the Tweetsie Railroad
  • Driving part of the Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Grandfather Mountain
  • Linville Falls
RESOURCE LINKS:

Full guide on Boone: https://thisisraleigh.com/things-to-do-in-boone-nc/

Linville Falls & Grandfather Mountain: https://www.ytravelblog.com/grandfather-mountain-linville-falls-day-trip-blue-ridge-parkway-nc/

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

 

21. Fun in the Great Smoky Mountains: Bryson City Review01 Dec 202100:57:20

The holidays are a great time to visit Bryson City in the Great Smoky Mountains. You've got the Polar Express, Tweetsie Railroad Theme Park, and a whole lot more in this small town. Tune in to hear where we ate, where we drank, and what we did on our little getaway!

 

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:
  • Why Bryson City is a great mountain town
  • Our cabin stay in the mountains
  • The gateway to Smoky Mountains National Park
  • What to see & do in Bryson City
  • Riding the Polar Express train

 

RESOURCE LINKS:

Blog post: https://www.ytravelblog.com/things-to-do-in-bryson-city/

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

 

EP 56: Jessica Holt from Visit Raleigh02 Apr 202400:49:47

We love getting local insights about Raleigh, and it would be hard to find someone with their finger on the pulse of what's happening in Raleigh more than Jessica Holt, the Public Relations and International Tourism Manager at Visit Raleigh. 

In this episode we ask Jess about what she thinks sets Raleigh apart from other cities as a tourist destination, how has Raleigh's tourism landscape evolved over the years what she sees for its future, her must-visit attractions, places to eat and drink, her favorite festivals, what advice she would you give to someone planning their first trip to Raleigh, and much more!

RESOURCES:
20. Heirloom Brewshop's Chuan Tsay23 Nov 202100:56:34

When Chuan Tsay told his mom he was starting a coffee shop, she was devastated - because she'd been there before and seen the toll the restaurant industry takes. But for Chuan and his wife Anna Phommavong, they wanted to "create something that completes our parents' journeys or at least takes it one step further because when they were doing this, it was at a time and place in which they weren't as respected for their identities as much as we have been in our time and place and time."

Tune in to Chuan's fascinating story, and visit Heirloom as well in the Warehouse District of Downtown Raleigh.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:
  • His background and where he grew up
  • How he got into the hospitality industry
  • What Heirloom is all about
  • Key features of Asian cafes that influenced Heirloom
  • Why he opened Heirloom in Raleigh and challenges he faced
  • His unique way of introducing Heirloom to Raleigh
  • What you can expect when you visit Heirloom
  • Insights on starting a business in Raleigh
  • Most popular menu items at Heirloom
  • His favorite things about living in Raleigh
  • Favorite getaway spot in North Carolina
  • and so much more!
RESOURCE LINKS:

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

 

19. Maggie Kane, A Place at the Table17 Nov 202101:00:40

In January 2018, Raleigh native Maggie Kane opened Raleigh's first pay-what-you-can cafe, A Place at the Table. Today she talks to Caroline and Craig about the why and how of how it all got started, how the Triangle community has been so supportive, and what she likes to do in the City of Oaks when she's not working.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:
  • Who is “A Place At The Table”
  • How does this pay-what-you-can cafe operate
  • Maggie’s background and how she got inspired to do what she does
  • Her time at NC State University
  • How working at a day shelter inspired what she does now
  • Why it took 4 years to open the cafe and get it off the ground (and who helped her)
  • How the volunteer program works (and the $10 token)
  • Generous stories of paying it forward
  • Her purpose in life and knowing her WHY
  • Why it’s important to ask for help and have a support system
  • The power of support in the Triangle region
  • Her hopes for the future of downtown Raleigh
  • And so much more!
RESOURCE LINKS:

 https://thisisraleigh.com/maggie-kane-table-raleigh/

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

This is Raleigh is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace, and is produced by Earfluence.

18. Raleigh Chamber CEO Adrienne Cole10 Nov 202100:51:01

Adrienne Cole was born in Raleigh and went to college at Meredith. She's seen how the City of Oaks has evolved over the years, and in 2017, she was named the first female CEO of the Raleigh Chamber. Today Adrienne talks about how Raleigh has changed, what she loves to do in the Triangle, and her vision for the future.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:
  • How it felt to become the first CEO of the chamber of commerce
  • Where she grew up, and her experience going to Meredith College
  • Getting her start as the County Planner & Economic Director (and the Fire Marshall) in Pamlico County
  • What brought her back to Raleigh
  • Starting with the Raleigh Chamber in 2004 running Raleigh Economic Development
  • What is Raleigh Chamber all about, and how it operates and supports businesses
  • Her role within the chamber in shaping how Raleigh has evolved
  • WHY Raleigh has such a collaborative and supportive community
  • What attracts businesses to Raleigh
  • How did Raleigh get on so many lists, and how do we stay on the lists
  • What is unique and special about Raleigh 
  • Her favorite things to do in Raleigh
  • Favorite getaway in North Carolina
  • Raleigh over the next 5-10 years

Are you looking to buy or sell a home and are in needed of a real estate agent in the Raleigh area? As a Licensed Realtor and referral agent, I can save you the time and stress searching and vetting, and connect you to my team of trusted Realtor partners. Read more here,

  RESOURCE LINKS :

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

 

17. Brunswick Islands Holiday Review03 Nov 202100:42:56

We recently went to the North Carolina coast for some rest and relaxation. Tune in for our recommendations on what to do (climb the lighthouse, avoid the alligators, visit Fishy Fishy) at Ocean Isle.

 

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:
  • Why we love the sunrises on the Carolina Coast (and how it’s different from Australia)
  • Caroline’s trip to Northern California
  • 4 days in Brunswick Islands (+ where we stayed)
  • Why we love going to the beach in the Fall (and the year round school calendar)
  • Ocean Isle Beach highlights
  • Climbing Oak Island Lighthouse
  • How charming and cool Southport is
  • Walking to the Kindred Spirit Mailbox
  • Why you should visit Sunset Beach
  • Eating fresh seafood in Calabash
  • Zip lining adventure course
  • Stand up paddle boarding heaven

 

RESOURCE LINKS:

 

\For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

16. Hannah Weisberg, The Women's Social Club28 Oct 202100:52:54

Hannah Weisberg was excited to launch her new company, an indoor space in Raleigh for workshops and events...until COVID took away all indoor events. So she made the pivot to The Women's Social Club, a place that provides approachable opportunities to support mentorships, relationships and networking opportunities for women in the City of Oaks.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT
  • Hannah’s experiences living in New York, Boston and Miami and how it helped influence her current entrepreneur endeavors.
  • The Mission and purpose for Women’s Social Club and how it got started.
  • The importance of giving back to your community and supporting locally owned (especially women business).
  • Tips to help people settle into a new community.
  • As a bonafide local, Hannah shares her insights on how Raleigh has changed – the good and bad.
  • What the word PIVOT meant to Hannah during COVID, moving from one business to another.
  • The future of Women’s Social Club.
  • New event space in downtown Raleigh: Hartwell House.
  • Some of Hannah’s favorite places to eat and drink in Raleigh.
  • What “This is Raleigh” means to Hannah!

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

This is Raleigh is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace, and is produced by Earfluence.

15. Innovate Raleigh's Clark Rinehart22 Oct 202101:03:34

The Innovate Raleigh Summit will be held Friday October 29th at 1PM at the Raleigh Convention Center. Today we talk to interim director Clark Rinehart about what Innovate Raleigh is, why he's so passionate about the City of Oaks, and why our first college football experience was awful for him.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT
  • Clark’s background and what first brought him to Raleigh.
  • His time at the Loading Dock.
  • What is Innovate Raleigh?
  • How he become involved with Innovate Raleigh.
  • His role as interim director.
  • What you can expect from the Summit:
    • Who attends
    • Who are the speakers
    • How can people get tickets
  • His best pivot in the past 12-18 months.
  • What excites him about business in Raleigh moving forward.
  • Concerns he has for the Raleigh community.
  • His idea to tap into underutilized real estate assets in Raleigh.
  • Where he likes to eat, drink and play in Raleigh.
  • Favorite getaway spot in North Carolina.
RESOURCE LINKS

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

 

14. Fun Things to Do with Kids in Raleigh14 Oct 202100:48:34

It's hard to find things to do that are fun for both kids and parents. We've been there (and yes, we've heard complaining), but we've come up with a list of things to do in Raleigh that both children and parents will enjoy.

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

This is Raleigh is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace, and is produced by Earfluence.

13: Raleigh vs Australia07 Oct 202101:04:53

Spiders, fences, discovering Cheerwine, and we don't cook "shrimp" on the Barbie!

There are some major differences between living in Raleigh and living in Australia, and today we talk about some of the more notable ones.

Full video: https://youtu.be/yhwLlxfVyDk

Full Show Notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/raleigh-vs-australia-cultural-differences/

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

This is Raleigh is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace, and is produced by Earfluence.

12: Buying a Home in Raleigh (our story)05 Oct 202101:07:49

We love living in Raleigh and buying our first home in Raleigh was a dream come true. But, the Raleigh real estate market is NUTS, listen in for our tips & insights!

Full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=do38VLnBajM&t

Full show notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/buying-a-house-in-raleigh-podcast/

For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit ThisIsRaleigh.com.

This is Raleigh is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace, and is produced by Earfluence.

 
EP 11: 20 Reasons NOT to move to Raleigh02 Sep 202101:01:43

We’ve been singing Raleigh’s praises since 2004 and have often called it America’s best kept secret. 

But, we KNOW it’s not for everyone. No place is perfect and we all have different values, priorities, likes and dislikes.

So we thought we do a fun podcast episode sharing why you may not LOVE living in Raleigh and perhaps save you a disastrous decision by moving here if it does not check your non-negotiable lists on livability!

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:
  • Not on the beach. If you come from Florida or California this might be disappointing but a quick look on the map will let you know that before you move!
  • Not enough diversity in the food scene: Has exploded and continues to gain in prominence compared to other Southern foodie cities like Charleston, Nashville, and Atlanta.
  • Humidity makes summers too uncomfortable.
  • The Pollen is a Pain in the Sinuses!
  • Hurricane season can feel a little intimidating.
  • Bugs….mozzies…. and flying roaches
  • Copperheads…..most common venomous snakes in North Carolina. 
  • Not a ton of big tourist attractions in a smaller city
  • Moves too slow in customer service. Definitely not New York style in Raleigh!
  • Competitive real estate market 
  • Too many trees. (Strangest complaint heard ever!!)
  • Only 1 Pro sport team, but college sports is pretty good!
  • No street lights
  • Too much traffic lol….it’s all perspective!  (Stop moving here and it will ease off!!)

Are you looking to buy or sell a home and are in needed of a real estate agent in the Raleigh area? As a Licensed Realtor and referral agent, I can save you the time and stress searching and vetting, and connect you to my team of trusted Realtor partners. Read more here, or click the link below

Click here to get started RESOURCE LINKS VIDEO PODCAST

For those who may prefer watching a video of us podcasting, we filmed that for you too, which you’ll find on YouTube each week.

Full show notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/live-in-raleigh/

EP 55 - Spring Time in Raleigh22 Mar 202400:42:27

Spring is one of our favorite times to get outdoors and enjoy the vibrant Raleigh lifestyle. The weather is warming up, the gardens are blooming, and there are fun festivals & events.

In this episode we talk about all the fun things to do in Raleigh during Spring, inlcuding best gardens, events, places to eat outside, trails and much more!

RESOURCES:
EP 10: Raleigh Life Updates + New Findings26 Aug 202100:50:41

We are back recording podcasts y'all. In this episode we share about our house hunting in Raleigh, sending our kids to school for the first time, why Caz joined the Women's Social Club in Raleigh, restaurants in Raleigh we're loving, and our experience tasting Cheerwine for the first time!

Here's what we talk about:

  • New podcasting studio @ Raleigh Founded via Earfluence

  • Challenges of our old podcast setup and managing a podcast with a CRAZY travel life

  • Time for our daughters to return to traditional school and the challenges of carpooling and finding the right school. 

  • Why we love a year round calendar: great for us as travelers, better for kids & teachers

  • The many schooling options and the difficulties of caps, zones, and applications!

  • Raleigh City Farm. and volunteering at their Wednesday Wine & Weeds
  • Our journey into house hunting during this crazy real estate market.

  • The secret is out on Raleigh being Americas best kept secret.

  • Our top lesson: Don't Assume!! Always ask to get the facts. 

  • WOW!! In American you can get 30yr fixed interest with low rates! Certainly not the case Down Under!

  • Our excitement at owning our own home after 20yrs of renting & traveling

  • Joining the Women's Social Club

  • Restaurants we’ve been to lately: Sitti, Bosphorus, Kakabish

  • Burial beer and their cool mural!

  • Cheerwine...yuck!!!

Full show notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/raleigh-life-update-podcast/

EP 09: Why you should explore Downtown Cary17 Apr 202100:29:47

Downtown Cary has evolved a lot in recent years and we love how charming and vibrant it is,. It’s offering some of the best places to eat and drink in the Triangle.

There’s the locally owned coffee shop, bakery, bagel place, ice cream shop, pizza joint, local boutiques and art galleries, the park, the theater and arts center, a wine market, and the classic soda fountain inside the drugstore – not to mention one of the best breweries in America!

 

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:

  • How Cary has changed since we first moved to Raleigh
  • The charming main streets
  • Fun events like Zombie Fest and the Guinness Book of Records Flip Flop Run
  • The Cary Arts Festival and Farmers Market
  • Our favorite breweries and bars
  • The swankiest new Dive Bar in town

RESOURCE LINKS:

Detailed blog post: https://thisisraleigh.com/downtown-cary-nc/

EP08: Breweries in Raleigh we Keep Returning to08 Apr 202100:36:27

We can’t do a Raleigh podcast without talking about our favorite Raleigh breweries. The beer scene has exploded in recent years, and if you love a craft brew, this is the episode for you.

We’ve been to AshevillePortlandWashington State, San DiegoDenver, and Raleigh has just as good craft beer as any of them! As Australians we thought American beer consisted of Budweiser, Coors, and Miller.

Now we know better. You cannot beat an American craft beer and you’ll find any style you like all over Wake County and beyond! There are now at least 41 breweries in Raleigh area and it seems more popping up each week.

We have yet to visit all of these breweries. We keep getting sidetracked returning to the ones we love. We’re sharing those ones in this episode.

  • The BOOMING Raleigh craft brew scene and why we rate it as one of the best in the country (we've been too a lot of breweries across the USA)
  •  
  • What we love most in a brewery
  •  
  • The absence of good cider and gluten free beer (+ a shout out to those who do!)
  •  
  • Our favorite event in Raleigh (years ago) The Beerfest!
  •  
  • The breweries we love and the beer that makes them great.

Resources mentioned:

Full Show Notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/raleigh-breweries/

EP07: Fun Day Trips from Raleigh27 Mar 202100:53:54

Looking for ideas about cool day trips from Raleigh? One of the things we love about living in Raleigh is its central location to so many other great places.

Today we chat about 5 great getaway ideas for everyone, whether you desire a beach break, you’re a foodie, or you’re into history, the arts, or sports.

They are easy to visit in a day – but there is no reason why you shouldn’t stay longer.

We visit these places near Raleigh often, and will continue to do so. Be sure to join our VIP email community so you don’t miss an update. And follow our current adventures – near and far – on Instagram.

For each place, we share some of the best things to do in a day, including places to eat!

EP 07: WHAT WE TALK ABOUT
  • Why we think Wrightsville Beach is the best beach in the USA
  • What makes Wilmington – the Hollywood of the East – full of so much Southern Charm
  • The exciting food and cultural destination of Durham and its unique Black History.
  • The college town of Chapel Hill and how it has a very unique personality. (and of course the best basketball team!!)
  • The surprising enjoyable rural (but moving to urban) Johnston County.
RESOURCE LINKS VIDEO PODCAST

For those who may prefer watching a video of us podcasting, we filmed that for you too, which you’ll find on YouTube each week.

Full show notes: 

 

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