In this episode, we chat with Jennifer Martin, executive director of Shop Local Raleigh, about her journey from Florida to Raleigh and her mission to support local businesses. Jennifer discusses how she and her team partner with various local enterprises — from restaurants and boutiques to media companies and health spas — to help them thrive. She highlights the importance of shopping local for the community and economy and shares insights on how Shop Local Raleigh aids businesses in marketing, strategy, and networking. Additionally, Jennifer touches on major events organized by Shop Local Raleigh, like Brewgaloo and Falling for Local, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the area. Join us to learn more about the vibrant local business scene in Raleigh and the efforts to promote and sustain it.

00:00 Introduction to Local Business Champion

01:29 Jennifer Martin's Journey to Raleigh

03:55 The Importance of Shopping Local

09:36 Supporting Local Businesses: Challenges and Strategies

12:53 Future of Raleigh's Business Landscape

19:42 Starting a Business in Raleigh

22:10 Shop Local Raleigh's Major Events

25:28 Craft Beer Delivery Challenges and Industry Trends

26:36 Expanding the Festival Footprint

27:38 Creating Family-Friendly Events

29:13 Planning Massive Events

32:04 Rain or Shine: Event Resilience

33:24 Local Favorites and Personal Preferences

37:45 Supporting Local Businesses

40:03 Finding Shop Local Raleigh Online

In this week's episode of What's Up, Wake, we dive deep into the life of double platinum songwriter and local musician Jason Adamo. Jason shares his captivating journey from his beginnings in Blacksburg, Virginia, through his musical influences, to becoming a renowned artist living and performing in Raleigh, NC. We discuss his unexpected discovery of new music genres, his songwriting process, and his experience of finding a living kidney donor. Don't miss his heartfelt performance of "Beautiful Believer" and his insights on navigating the music industry. Follow his inspiring story and learn valuable advice for aspiring musicians.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

01:13 Meet Jason Adamo: The Local Music Sensation

01:29 Jason's Musical Roots and Family Influence

04:12 Discovering Rock and Roll

06:15 The Journey to Double Platinum

12:23 Navigating the Music Business

17:14 Embracing New Technology

18:09 A Life-Saving Kidney Donation

19:43 A Neighbor's Unexpected Gift

20:48 A Setback and Way Forward

21:13 The Six-Surgery Chain

22:57 Jenna's Wedding and Matchmaking

23:18 Becoming a Living Donor

24:05 Charity Concerts and Community Support

24:54 Lightning Round Questions

29:39 Performing and Family Life

30:28 Closing and Final Performance

Join Melissa as she speaks with Erin McKnight and Cass Santander about the rebuilding efforts in Asheville, North Carolina, following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. The episode delves into the resilience and collaborative spirit of the community, highlighting the role of artists and local businesses in the recovery. Get insights into the state of Asheville six months after the hurricane, learn about ongoing support efforts, and discover how you can help by visiting and supporting the local economy.

00:00 Introduction to North Carolina's Fall Colors

00:44 Impact of Hurricane Helene

01:24 Community Response and Recovery

01:44 Interview with Erin McKnight and Cass Santander

02:14 Current State of Asheville

03:18 Rebuilding the River Arts District

04:54 Challenges and Resilience

15:13 Economic Impact and Recovery Efforts

23:20 Encouraging Tourism and Support

26:51 Conclusion and Call to Action

In today's episode, we sit down with Erica DeLong, a prominent voice on Raleigh's G105 radio station and a regular contributor to local magazines. Erica shares her inspiring journey from a college sophomore to a wife and mother, all while building a successful radio career. Get an insider view of Erica's beginnings in radio, her experiences with famous personalities, and how she balances her professional life with family. Plus, learn about her impact on local and international communities through various charitable works. This chat promises laughter, deep insights, and a closer look at one of Raleigh's most beloved radio personalities.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Special Guest

01:09 Erica DeLong's Journey into Radio

03:17 Balancing Passion and Career

04:53 Red Carpet Experiences

06:27 Staying Local in a National Industry

10:08 Challenges and Advice for Women in Radio

12:24 Evolution from Shock Jock Radio

15:17 Personal Life and Recharging

17:41 Ideal Family Day

18:07 Philippines Prison Reform Trip

19:42 Faith and Personal Growth

20:59 Local Charities and Giving Back

22:30 Lightning Round: North Carolina Edition

25:42 Celebrity Encounters

27:02 Dream Interviews and Local Favorites

29:24 Where to Follow and Listen

30:23 Conclusion and Farewell

In the second episode of What's Up Wake, we sit down with the winners of the Wake Living Readers' Choice Award for Best Local Podcast - Joe Ovies and Joe Giglio from the Ovies and Giglio podcast. Join us as we delve into their journey from radio to podcasting, the intricacies of the media business, and their thoughts on NC State sports. Discover how they pivoted their careers, the importance of audience loyalty, and their future aspirations in the evolving world of sports media. Whether you're a sports fanatic or someone interested in the behind-the-scenes of podcasting, this episode has something for you. Plus, don't miss the 'Dumb It Down' segment, where complex sports terms are broken down into layman's terms.

00:00 Introduction to What's Up Wake

01:19 Meet the Podcasting Duo: Joe Ovies and Joe Gilgio

02:50 Navigating Career Changes: From Radio to Podcasting

04:24 Building a New Audience and Embracing Change

09:48 The Unique Sports Culture of North Carolina

12:12 Journey into Sports Media: Ovies and Giglio's Beginnings

19:29 Radio vs. Podcast: The Business Shift

20:58 Challenges of Radio Interviews

21:39 The Reset Debate

22:16 Active vs. Passive Listening

24:53 The NIL and Transfer Portal Explained

27:58 NC State's Hangover Year

32:09 OG Lightning Round

In the inaugural episode of What's Up, Wake, we sit down with renowned chef and restaurateur Scott Crawford. Known for his significant contributions to Wake County's foodie scene, Scott shares his incredible journey from his early days in Pennsylvania to becoming a multiple James Beard Award nominee. He talks about his passion for cooking, his struggles with addiction, and his dedication to community improvement through initiatives like Ben's Friends and Healing Transitions. We also delve into his creative process, leadership style, and the importance of farm-to-table dining. All this and more in a conversation that’s as hearty as a five-course meal!

00:00 Introduction to What's Up Wake

01:13 Meet Scott Crawford: A Culinary Visionary

02:14 Scott's Journey: From Dishwasher to Chef

04:58 Culinary Adventures Across the States

07:24 Leadership and Success in the Culinary World

09:18 Balancing Roles: Chef and CEO

12:56 Choosing Raleigh: A Place to Call Home

17:50 Overcoming Addiction: Scott's Sobriety Journey

23:40 Farm to Kitchen: Embracing Local Produce

25:49 Lightning Round: Fun Facts About Scott

30:01 Conclusion and Gratitude

Hi there, and welcome to What's Up Wake. Presented by the publishers of Cary Magazine, Wake Living, and Main & Broad.

What's Up, Wake covers the people, places, restaurants, and events of Wake County — essentially, all the cool stuff and great news of Wake County. We'll chat with local personalities, business owners, and influencers to find out what makes the Triangle the best place to live. I'm your host, Melissa Wistehuff. Join me as we find out: What's Up, Wake?

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Stay tuned for the first episode on Tuesday, March 4.